tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3886284531362724592024-02-07T15:58:14.101-05:00Life LessonsLearning about life through the eyes of my childrenAmandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.comBlogger226125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-32627814245859483612016-11-27T20:19:00.002-05:002016-12-22T09:29:57.184-05:00The ABCs of Advent - The First Sunday of AdventIn 2007 (the year my mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor), I took some time away from the ministry in the early fall and was encouraged to prepare something for our families within the church and beyond to use during the season of Advent. While life had been such a whirlwind that year, it was a simple time to write about simple things that have such great impact. I shared the idea to the children within the ministry, had them draw a few things, and then spent hours and hours in front of a computer and with the copy/print company to produce something by the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Out of that effort, with God's grace and blessing, much prayer and continual editing came <i>A is for Advent, </i>an Advent devotional for families. It was tool and resource for studying God's word, reflecting on His plan for mankind, and practicing the simple ABCs throughout the upcoming 4 weeks as we look towards Christmas Day. <br>
Each year, since we've had children, we use this devotional for our family and enjoy the conversations that grow from it, year to year. We always love to share what we're learning, and hope you find encouragement from this too.<br>
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<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><br></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-18410155623789099082016-05-14T12:32:00.001-04:002016-05-14T12:32:24.687-04:00Friday, the end of a good weekLast year God's calling was piercingly distinct. I remember climbing up the mountain several different days and meeting with Him as I never had before. I was anxious to get back up the mountain, but we had been told it was some dangerous to climb without the missionary as our guide, so we had to wait until this morning to subir. <div>Naturally, we were up by 5 am along with the rest of the city so we began the ascent. At the top, I was reminded why this place was so wonderful. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWuBWTxu6hHM2aaJbwvnA6RdX0lPm9N8y86SOsRRgROKy4lYBNdgvgQx0RI9PQoDH0nkSo1obkBsxM_yvhO06xCuVPwzL9hP3BSrBrDp2gplDv6qkRR1VVXELKPku_0_n5h39KrLxUqLo/s640/blogger-image--697269239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWuBWTxu6hHM2aaJbwvnA6RdX0lPm9N8y86SOsRRgROKy4lYBNdgvgQx0RI9PQoDH0nkSo1obkBsxM_yvhO06xCuVPwzL9hP3BSrBrDp2gplDv6qkRR1VVXELKPku_0_n5h39KrLxUqLo/s640/blogger-image--697269239.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP_qaCypa1bIF5cedmhdC-ijXAouxt_Ugk4mug-3nMehhAnqHYhTUqxES1y37s3aIWaFErE45dWXTWdEqQFtK2J39F8tGsmfmpMnrtd2EARfors4NLq-dWPNOSFErPh1dE_5Qez5DfDuk/s640/blogger-image-1877247233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP_qaCypa1bIF5cedmhdC-ijXAouxt_Ugk4mug-3nMehhAnqHYhTUqxES1y37s3aIWaFErE45dWXTWdEqQFtK2J39F8tGsmfmpMnrtd2EARfors4NLq-dWPNOSFErPh1dE_5Qez5DfDuk/s640/blogger-image-1877247233.jpg"></a></div>It's like from a magazine. So peaceful, fulfilling, and promising. </div><div>No way can I doubt the Lord's presence, protection, and provision with us this week. Though, if I'm honest, I must admit the feeling of "hanging on" almost as if we were waiting for a big BANG to go off and God to speak loudly again and give us direct orders. But, as far as we can tell, that didn't happen. </div><div>We both are in love with the people and the country, see the extreme need in that place and want to be there, especially with those we have become closest with over the last days. But we just aren't quite sure how. </div><div>Now that the anticipation of our trip has come and gone, now we begin to pray for the other side of that coin just as hard: when do we go back and for how long?!</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4kp8dmW9nMHn-6b_Ui795Fjs8ntpiuVtKxBrJV7msKIg57-jfRQdFiC0ysRE6O9qXpVGeb3CaODldfLxxSIeKBw_TNrPnKsuf1HasPn5ghzb-PrpRy8q63YjlJ6qzqoyYIal_5drv3w4/s640/blogger-image-689613783.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4kp8dmW9nMHn-6b_Ui795Fjs8ntpiuVtKxBrJV7msKIg57-jfRQdFiC0ysRE6O9qXpVGeb3CaODldfLxxSIeKBw_TNrPnKsuf1HasPn5ghzb-PrpRy8q63YjlJ6qzqoyYIal_5drv3w4/s640/blogger-image-689613783.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>It's rather difficult to put it all into words now, and we know that trusting God with the plans he has for our family there is where our hearts want to be. </div><div><br></div><div>Our team is headed back with wheels already up for a few. It's been a week of lots of everything and we look forward to sharing more personally how God intervened and put us in places to teach us great things and how to bring HOPE!</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-Z2XJllirjgymFqdiTjlBkQF4Sjlv8NCent-YBXC2i_TSfRruXfbODRoyzlouehykt3YTaGNQtX5AqqfY5RxFOezxoH9NvmfUvyRYah7vbwp-Gx5CyuZXVs-3_g5ER9ZmwJUFCcXDBw/s640/blogger-image--1935683668.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-Z2XJllirjgymFqdiTjlBkQF4Sjlv8NCent-YBXC2i_TSfRruXfbODRoyzlouehykt3YTaGNQtX5AqqfY5RxFOezxoH9NvmfUvyRYah7vbwp-Gx5CyuZXVs-3_g5ER9ZmwJUFCcXDBw/s640/blogger-image--1935683668.jpg"></a></div>Honduras 2016</div><div><br></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-46045744309581326542016-05-14T02:04:00.001-04:002016-05-14T02:04:56.403-04:00ThursdayIn our final day of ministry we were left with a few things to accomplish. We've been up since 6 am and it's now 11:21 pm. We will be up by 530 tmrw morning and get home sometimes by midnight. The next 48 hours will be exhausting, no doubt. <div><br></div><div>We began the morning by sorting out a few of our onesies for the babies, then we hopped in the truck and headed for day center 2. This was the first feeding center we went to last year and somehow there is just a sense of belonging there. There were about 22 children there (only one of which attended last year) and of course, one that I immediately attached to. Her name is Jasmine and she was incredibly shy. All of the other students sat around 3 different tables but she sat alone in the corner. She had such a sweet smile, once she finally warmed up. There wasn't nearly enough time spent there. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh86fhHCG2CJeEKELaPJPmWS7vlnBjAD5c1V5p3GvH_ALo-3nNmrQisYZtrh-FFnZutytfKGT8ANePy-Es6RNF3OCWGbuR9r4w88lHuOOVt3w-e8nluGgPRCteJdyymwoX1WBPYkGl7ceQ/s640/blogger-image-1370924699.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh86fhHCG2CJeEKELaPJPmWS7vlnBjAD5c1V5p3GvH_ALo-3nNmrQisYZtrh-FFnZutytfKGT8ANePy-Es6RNF3OCWGbuR9r4w88lHuOOVt3w-e8nluGgPRCteJdyymwoX1WBPYkGl7ceQ/s640/blogger-image-1370924699.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQQ7FvnFFY7OtaiE3GBy3kK-oGvqJuyGGgDc2CATRfbEehkTYd9sK0T4hNUj-dLkdUufxwZNNEJwhmqi-hNY7T4faS25kYKRjvsYxd9lpDKn5ihVNgB9tC0ipxaHCUGWmEk0YUoJxgal4/s640/blogger-image--370124810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQQ7FvnFFY7OtaiE3GBy3kK-oGvqJuyGGgDc2CATRfbEehkTYd9sK0T4hNUj-dLkdUufxwZNNEJwhmqi-hNY7T4faS25kYKRjvsYxd9lpDKn5ihVNgB9tC0ipxaHCUGWmEk0YUoJxgal4/s640/blogger-image--370124810.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Just outside of the center was this scene of the neighborhood. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmXd1cXc03iEKPa9Kn7dVCrBXsVnVzbWsSaytX1mnJSlZSXx6ozDytEhaKxFgjaZByam2CCZgXASNSd6XPDqXewSoEbEAQ5SwdFX2sosGDJPNKvhIU0MMxANvM6x74M5pu4JM8xM4OXs/s640/blogger-image-726783270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhmXd1cXc03iEKPa9Kn7dVCrBXsVnVzbWsSaytX1mnJSlZSXx6ozDytEhaKxFgjaZByam2CCZgXASNSd6XPDqXewSoEbEAQ5SwdFX2sosGDJPNKvhIU0MMxANvM6x74M5pu4JM8xM4OXs/s640/blogger-image-726783270.jpg"></a></div>At the top of that hill was a man carrying a 50" Sony tv. Quite the photo opp. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After the center, we headed to the hospital (after making a pit stop at the gas station and the grocery store). Fourth floor maternity ward. It just isn't the same as it is in the states. This is one out of 9 hospitals in the city and the only one that's a teaching hospital. Any procedure, whether it's back surgery, labor of a baby, or heart surgery, you only pay $5 for it. It is said that it's the hospital you go to when you want to die. 15,000 babies are born annually at this hospital alone (about 66/day) and about 20% of the mothers are between 13-19 yrs old. Those are some wild statistics! They have a separate room for those young teenagers (minors). I went into that room and dressed a baby whose mother was 14 yrs old. Another 16 yr old little girl was caring for her second child. Weakly, depressing. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBwS2u4ktyR3kMyb2HIyeQbWnt2N8yZSHdmfXxfu9x8EmRIv8_itZjUxcpDuEEeAdNqzqOzwHKHpZ2_QFAg1y5b9oOMp1PtU-VIbT9viRuoal5qCrLjJ7dm4zHfY9s1GtHMQj5ElooBQ8/s640/blogger-image-1512947936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBwS2u4ktyR3kMyb2HIyeQbWnt2N8yZSHdmfXxfu9x8EmRIv8_itZjUxcpDuEEeAdNqzqOzwHKHpZ2_QFAg1y5b9oOMp1PtU-VIbT9viRuoal5qCrLjJ7dm4zHfY9s1GtHMQj5ElooBQ8/s640/blogger-image-1512947936.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxGV-lekH4mMBaQRFMbmLeg60JdI04Kxz8k7WgrHN8HcuEgTti0LwPcWPRtJK2qetQvi7GzxOInoRBkdzrdMle-cD7V7p33-aJ2M05teYHLunzSA9qTcAHUZieFrrNm5BUFd0GH8GFlsE/s640/blogger-image-637257210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxGV-lekH4mMBaQRFMbmLeg60JdI04Kxz8k7WgrHN8HcuEgTti0LwPcWPRtJK2qetQvi7GzxOInoRBkdzrdMle-cD7V7p33-aJ2M05teYHLunzSA9qTcAHUZieFrrNm5BUFd0GH8GFlsE/s640/blogger-image-637257210.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioFxucFDDE_YDMvJYORzHfziZjdflAY6mUUqZuyAxU8I8JvYc1UI-WGP6MmDLR2VIK6hWN1C-7GdchQqz5fMA005T8UwMfgn2E9DRuFTXfZE-scXSALLf2euTNb2Vazejn7MfL9Qe26Zw/s640/blogger-image-1841758675.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioFxucFDDE_YDMvJYORzHfziZjdflAY6mUUqZuyAxU8I8JvYc1UI-WGP6MmDLR2VIK6hWN1C-7GdchQqz5fMA005T8UwMfgn2E9DRuFTXfZE-scXSALLf2euTNb2Vazejn7MfL9Qe26Zw/s640/blogger-image-1841758675.jpg"></a></div>We served over 70 babies that had literally been born in the last 24 hours. I held one baby who was only 10 hours old. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We gifted them blankets (that we sewed and when I hurt my finger), diapers and wipes (that were purchased thanks to many of our supporters), and onesies that our Tirzah folks had brought. We entered into each room where there were anywhere from 2-6 women. In some rooms, the woman had lost their babies. Others were in so much pain for their c-section and had no access to medication. We saw their children, gave them gifts and prayed for them. We even were able to change some of thief babies. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvN9qd_fo1yyUzdnLnCIiPVrwzYqJMljow_gLhI3eWxckmoVGkd0uQ9eICjhwzwoYkvBQuHq6SDFOYw3PFd8G9_q2ADUx11U57iBaS9qkMngUOQMPd5eVvWKbkEyC7LDOK21VJbeoxN9c/s640/blogger-image-67630741.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvN9qd_fo1yyUzdnLnCIiPVrwzYqJMljow_gLhI3eWxckmoVGkd0uQ9eICjhwzwoYkvBQuHq6SDFOYw3PFd8G9_q2ADUx11U57iBaS9qkMngUOQMPd5eVvWKbkEyC7LDOK21VJbeoxN9c/s640/blogger-image-67630741.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDeqYMNSHy3qoS5p8WlEXLAhKxinUdWYDN6V-m1EsNL-qj2uA4LYv0790ooeuxVMCcEQtPkaanRYmHZCwBs4RDPiHiOFujUXBwxlXWIaeHT1ZRDOUwPUmwBctjfV5L2cEzhzgH7i0c2M/s640/blogger-image-1775295762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDeqYMNSHy3qoS5p8WlEXLAhKxinUdWYDN6V-m1EsNL-qj2uA4LYv0790ooeuxVMCcEQtPkaanRYmHZCwBs4RDPiHiOFujUXBwxlXWIaeHT1ZRDOUwPUmwBctjfV5L2cEzhzgH7i0c2M/s640/blogger-image-1775295762.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTkYBuyf4qq38G48Rq3QNmrDYRPUDNpBBUBmSAWo5fezIIvjQrxVzKP-JFUpXVDM8DEw_O4gp5UgXCYRc1XbGY1uI1G29peavCwpJ257fsxhy_IT3qsWoqxfJAdnb5zvehgf-5BdPvmDg/s640/blogger-image-1335729295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTkYBuyf4qq38G48Rq3QNmrDYRPUDNpBBUBmSAWo5fezIIvjQrxVzKP-JFUpXVDM8DEw_O4gp5UgXCYRc1XbGY1uI1G29peavCwpJ257fsxhy_IT3qsWoqxfJAdnb5zvehgf-5BdPvmDg/s640/blogger-image-1335729295.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Coloring with ladies at the house who had come for a ladies afternoon. We had the chance to take some awesome new adult coloring books to "color God's Creation" from my dear friend Caroline Simas. Thanks to other friends Kasey and Robin we were able to take these for the women in the jail and for these neighbors to fellowship together. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivzhP14k5Kg57iofDoeeRI621TPqJ28fVFXNiCOStJuojfRc5lQN9u9E9ScHnFq8feWjZ9yNM64mD9qst-CAaIgNclkAcl28T6UZyzPlr5x8wIFbFaw4eprUyIgPQCiv9mZEV21SEAHTQ/s640/blogger-image-217555834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivzhP14k5Kg57iofDoeeRI621TPqJ28fVFXNiCOStJuojfRc5lQN9u9E9ScHnFq8feWjZ9yNM64mD9qst-CAaIgNclkAcl28T6UZyzPlr5x8wIFbFaw4eprUyIgPQCiv9mZEV21SEAHTQ/s640/blogger-image-217555834.jpg"></a></div>This is Cynthia. She joined us for our day, but she's also the new proud owner of the home that we dedicated on Saturday. The neatest thing about her: she has two daughters, Raquel and Grecia, that are practically the same ages of M and L and BOTH were born premature just like my girls. We had an instant connection of love!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Homeless feeding night was upon us. This is probably the most difficult ministry to be a part of. While someone else prepares the food, we help serve it to some do the most poorest in the streets. They are prostitutes, drug addicts and families who have nothing. This ministry is a hard one to swallow, and to reflect upon. Just a few photos to give you an idea:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtG5nIV2coaGMctYZD9i3qc-gn18UvneeVb6qQpZi4yldROT09fBL5E4hdVxBHvuJJJWH6z5-UMZ2R8zrEArNnPIuVinyz_KjlH5ikPmvd0x1rH2zHZ0YqVHwVadsGRhmncx0uEnn6dvA/s640/blogger-image--440529783.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtG5nIV2coaGMctYZD9i3qc-gn18UvneeVb6qQpZi4yldROT09fBL5E4hdVxBHvuJJJWH6z5-UMZ2R8zrEArNnPIuVinyz_KjlH5ikPmvd0x1rH2zHZ0YqVHwVadsGRhmncx0uEnn6dvA/s640/blogger-image--440529783.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXy4kwZ0imNRX1PYe-q6z4feIEbxd-OCmWmL8Im4HHFk4D_2a614J9EhNgxW9YfdutZudCSVjgjnr-pudYo5Cz5PJ069pGoJq7pbyKPEfXoyWXZ2TVyXbz7yV58P2f1UuRT31k5fYnk1Q/s640/blogger-image-606275547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXy4kwZ0imNRX1PYe-q6z4feIEbxd-OCmWmL8Im4HHFk4D_2a614J9EhNgxW9YfdutZudCSVjgjnr-pudYo5Cz5PJ069pGoJq7pbyKPEfXoyWXZ2TVyXbz7yV58P2f1UuRT31k5fYnk1Q/s640/blogger-image-606275547.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA9bgJKWbeNTgT96TVd1PsVxVutf-s25YyCsKbmCftkPbxORCFYNMoM3-Rzoz3QNqxYP9-YoTWz1tbVnW3sE5nkzUxWEvxttSmdr-as4rK2TPN90JRKJnrArx_os-sG7_Tgne8CZvc_PI/s640/blogger-image-14304317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA9bgJKWbeNTgT96TVd1PsVxVutf-s25YyCsKbmCftkPbxORCFYNMoM3-Rzoz3QNqxYP9-YoTWz1tbVnW3sE5nkzUxWEvxttSmdr-as4rK2TPN90JRKJnrArx_os-sG7_Tgne8CZvc_PI/s640/blogger-image-14304317.jpg"></a></div>Jeremy had an instant connection with Samuel while I was in the cab with Sammy's younger sister, Brittany who was also in the same position. It was a late night-we didn't get home until 11 pm!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Tomorrow is our departure. We anxiously await seeing the girls but know it will be hard to leave. </div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-7497190150221971682016-05-12T14:43:00.001-04:002016-05-12T14:43:56.836-04:00WednesdayI hate I wasn't able to post any sooner. It had been quite a day so we were all in bed before 9 pm!<div>We were able to go back to the jail again in the morning to visit with the girls. They weren't exactly full open arms when we walked in and it seemed a little more difficult to warm up to them. However, I was able to see their living quarters for the first time. Basically three girls share a cell with bunk beds. They put their stuff on the top bunk and sleep in the bottom. Most night, then three girls sleep together on the same mattress simply out of fear and need the comfort of a snuggle. These cells are locked from 12-2 pm, 4pm-8am. So they are only out from 8-12 and 2-4. Their toilets have been cemented in because the girls would continuously break them. Their showers are outside. They have their own clothes brought in from their family. In some aspects their living situation doesn't seem "too bad" but if I wer to tell you that between the 28 girls living they're, 4 of the 7 known gangs are represented. And they don't typically all get along. The other girls have committed a murder of some kind. Some have been there for several years, others just a month. One girl was expecting the court to come and pick her up at 10, but never arrived. They would have determined her sentence or would have let her free. This was the girl I had an opportunity to pray for (I acted as translator) along with Anna, another one of the Canadian missionaries. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHXfu0OuLmRvkF8c1NtFTnAqtiJK-oeoR2HmC2XlX8oh-a4eGa3j9TZTBHEfH-9dWowvzUfBGMQJxcjITioRRYHxIymM1PeSm6kTkzLSx-UVehfCm9vcG-xUHi84cV8s64wMv_wfNkIDQ/s640/blogger-image-951795451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHXfu0OuLmRvkF8c1NtFTnAqtiJK-oeoR2HmC2XlX8oh-a4eGa3j9TZTBHEfH-9dWowvzUfBGMQJxcjITioRRYHxIymM1PeSm6kTkzLSx-UVehfCm9vcG-xUHi84cV8s64wMv_wfNkIDQ/s640/blogger-image-951795451.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>I wasn't feeling well after our time the and knew I needed some sugar and food. So we got home and arena wonderful lunch. Then headed straight to the porch sew 30 more blankets for our hospital trip. As we began, I knew I had about 5 or 6 under my belt and was talking with the girl beside me doing the same thing. All of the sudden I realized my left pointer finger was moving up and down with the machine and then I felt a sharp stingy and throbbing pain and looked down to see that the sewing machine needle had gone entirely through my nail and out the back side of my fingertip. So naturally, I FREAKED!! I instinctively pulled it away from the machine ?i was still attached by the thread and needle) and I snapped the tip of the needle off. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHV_Nr0OB03LEHaKlWnqVEjLEBVvA-Ml-iGld589DrTPq5xV7JmtzB4eyT1zo8w1zOUQp13N61XUiEGHQuBk6V8m3qauZCG3a4Jk_KrE3Lh_uWKnDRDr9JvBBgCT0mQJKFb_rIG9pO45U/s640/blogger-image--693981981.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHV_Nr0OB03LEHaKlWnqVEjLEBVvA-Ml-iGld589DrTPq5xV7JmtzB4eyT1zo8w1zOUQp13N61XUiEGHQuBk6V8m3qauZCG3a4Jk_KrE3Lh_uWKnDRDr9JvBBgCT0mQJKFb_rIG9pO45U/s640/blogger-image--693981981.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">You see the top of that missing needle? Yeah, that's what was in me! Already not feeling too strong, having the pain and bit of blood.....THEN reading what finger it was. I was hysterical and was on the verge of passing out or getting real sick so I slumped into the chair and fell out onto the ground so if already be there when it did happen. Thankfully it didn't but my pressure was incredibly low and I didn't have color for most of the afternoon. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn8ItcqgAWtDjU34sFiyQDQCklnfWeeLHGtxj0ZoSEyTVjHzDEfWouZzh0PdijsdjHHBidexjwZ9hvpbvtgx3MJIN2twAZDViExtJRE-vfy1v6Ae3YnlY1p6JahYaU8AnFCUy1KS-rgHM/s640/blogger-image-994995222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn8ItcqgAWtDjU34sFiyQDQCklnfWeeLHGtxj0ZoSEyTVjHzDEfWouZzh0PdijsdjHHBidexjwZ9hvpbvtgx3MJIN2twAZDViExtJRE-vfy1v6Ae3YnlY1p6JahYaU8AnFCUy1KS-rgHM/s640/blogger-image-994995222.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">All bandages up now!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">And now looking back after several hours and a good rest, it does feel much better, though still in pain. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">For the evening we traveled back to the Centeal church for worship, prayer and Bible study. I had been prepped so I wasn't completely wacky, but I was to be the "preacher" for the evening. I knew I wanted to share from Ephesians 3:2021, so I took my thoughts and began to write them down through the week. Then translated them into Spanish and with the Spirit prompting words spoke for about 15 minutes on that. All in Spanish. (Thinking about that praxis test I took...Give me Jesus to talk about and I do fine. Give me "saving the whales" and I bomb it!) but anyway, it was so encouraging to be there, in that place, and to share encouragement with those believers. That indeed, God is going to do much more than we could ever ask or imagine! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDPu67Fh5aStcs0iDIGfEoMmo7ZOsifqrgQD4aPyrWPKB5mJGaS5zlXJ67h5djPsPuad6sgSATXmcAR8fmBLfNJPnn-sIILP6afFv6-Po5CXtYk8JcZPzsKv6BXm58cEzA2VvuqIERf_s/s640/blogger-image--522810740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDPu67Fh5aStcs0iDIGfEoMmo7ZOsifqrgQD4aPyrWPKB5mJGaS5zlXJ67h5djPsPuad6sgSATXmcAR8fmBLfNJPnn-sIILP6afFv6-Po5CXtYk8JcZPzsKv6BXm58cEzA2VvuqIERf_s/s640/blogger-image--522810740.jpg"></a></div>The skirts Shelby and I made (she had to finish mine) with fabric she found in the fabric store here in Honduras). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii1sFsoJ3qW6ix67ThzIrWD93_k5OoaKFWihg98eYqQ5AdgaLEwVOlp1t_vC8ZxNdt9blOSb5lfCmcEsQ-ZldSc74GUb_bfevMuxCtCthEgOcV36h9M4qhw8glzihEyg_gUJmuz_Vns3s/s640/blogger-image-404057787.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii1sFsoJ3qW6ix67ThzIrWD93_k5OoaKFWihg98eYqQ5AdgaLEwVOlp1t_vC8ZxNdt9blOSb5lfCmcEsQ-ZldSc74GUb_bfevMuxCtCthEgOcV36h9M4qhw8glzihEyg_gUJmuz_Vns3s/s640/blogger-image-404057787.jpg"></a></div>Praying for the congregation at central church. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We are looking forward to our last full day of ministry on Thirsday, which will include a visit to the hospital, some cultural engagement and feeding on the streets later tonight. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I personally have spent a lot of time praying and thinking about this city and these people and something isn't sitting quite well. The question that seems to be repeated over and over again is "God, you called us here, and we want to be here, but what are we here for?" I have always given the answer "to bring HOPE" but there's something greater and deeper that I just can't put my finger on. J is of course in love as I knew he would be, but where are we going from here? That's what we will continue praying for most, and that through it, God would be glorified. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-61397951354169450522016-05-11T09:15:00.001-04:002016-05-11T09:15:08.367-04:00Tuesday¡Gracias a Dios! Today has been an incredibly long day, but was more of an exploratory trip of sorts. The truck took about 14 people to "the village" of New Armenian to see the 4th church of Manos Extendidas. This totally wasn't what I would have imagined and I am thankful for your prayers of safety on our behalf. <div><br></div><div>We left around 830 and began the long, curvy, mountainous ride. That was about half the trip. Then we approached the Rocky Mountain and started the trip. It was over an hour of bump. I literally thought I had been displaced to the Grand Canyon. The site was THAT Rocky. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ixQX4Pk10R0Do36sV3M8UN07ajVK5sjO20k90h8UBTJ8nj4uNLD0PCbEp6k_y_JYukUn5NKJ0AYOmqCa_l41_HTX5vBcgEroPebW78Cc-MfREyNgL-nXU-NsoNfTZ5Ion-sRnpHjswM/s640/blogger-image-1957686726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ixQX4Pk10R0Do36sV3M8UN07ajVK5sjO20k90h8UBTJ8nj4uNLD0PCbEp6k_y_JYukUn5NKJ0AYOmqCa_l41_HTX5vBcgEroPebW78Cc-MfREyNgL-nXU-NsoNfTZ5Ion-sRnpHjswM/s640/blogger-image-1957686726.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAMSFEar1NWJUj0A5iiVxuONRck8a5b2O2IMH7UShg6yq4Rf-qVId7h1CcEMPkZkv_2sdJuDPrwd_rS0sKTIsPcYH7B2pNW5efbnEYzcqrCycmlzo3GfbCrdEAsEwPeR4UZrMDBYGmglQ/s640/blogger-image-1906597337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAMSFEar1NWJUj0A5iiVxuONRck8a5b2O2IMH7UShg6yq4Rf-qVId7h1CcEMPkZkv_2sdJuDPrwd_rS0sKTIsPcYH7B2pNW5efbnEYzcqrCycmlzo3GfbCrdEAsEwPeR4UZrMDBYGmglQ/s640/blogger-image-1906597337.jpg"></a></div>There were stray goats, cows and horses all along the way. Several donkeys kept us from going a couple of times. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Our first stop was the church under construction. The ministry owns about 3 acres on the top of this mountain in the village and they are under construction now to finish the church within the next month. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-N6atESeWtv9dV196zsewYoPY3zzyEJeAkMPh-uDX4krvo3Sufb-I0nWzdY89HropLqU9GEJxT2ala7VSQrTJph05vgpy4YrDVDN10CY5UT21HEyTVyDkiEP_NRZW3McEPpt3xz7MlSQ/s640/blogger-image-593475480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-N6atESeWtv9dV196zsewYoPY3zzyEJeAkMPh-uDX4krvo3Sufb-I0nWzdY89HropLqU9GEJxT2ala7VSQrTJph05vgpy4YrDVDN10CY5UT21HEyTVyDkiEP_NRZW3McEPpt3xz7MlSQ/s640/blogger-image-593475480.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrHLqFKUdaxZujIySmoHJCS17nLIiKdU6amzF6cjDtgZa9UFCb0MeLBH-VODfSDOYdQAxTlwn-A-BRpJrwvGwVWBtFEDF2DMF_S0l9HwVGhc2HAFvp0HNdBvrIxABPhok9Xu2SeCJ1OIU/s640/blogger-image-1199709872.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrHLqFKUdaxZujIySmoHJCS17nLIiKdU6amzF6cjDtgZa9UFCb0MeLBH-VODfSDOYdQAxTlwn-A-BRpJrwvGwVWBtFEDF2DMF_S0l9HwVGhc2HAFvp0HNdBvrIxABPhok9Xu2SeCJ1OIU/s640/blogger-image-1199709872.jpg"></a></div>This church has about 70-80 members and now they are just worshipping in homes. The pastor (at the open door on the left with the hat) and his son, Terrance (in the far back with hat on doing work) have been working tirelessly along with a team of five men from Texas last month to build this. The next plan is to build a home for 5-7 young men that would be able to care for this land, learn trades, and harvest the land for sale in town. That building would go here past those trees. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4LmH1DAth8wqnmyB0v5GVOAC-TX0Vppi8kR-ue7TZ6UMIRKALjSlzKD3zvf3bAZ4TwZ_S0nBXT4bmvfFWHn3zUMnDxnLyFxjdEkLcBqmp2CXE7eK-XRVx71qA7t4PSsy_Hr2FAI6LpsQ/s640/blogger-image--2088220191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4LmH1DAth8wqnmyB0v5GVOAC-TX0Vppi8kR-ue7TZ6UMIRKALjSlzKD3zvf3bAZ4TwZ_S0nBXT4bmvfFWHn3zUMnDxnLyFxjdEkLcBqmp2CXE7eK-XRVx71qA7t4PSsy_Hr2FAI6LpsQ/s640/blogger-image--2088220191.jpg"></a></div>And the crops would be harvested here</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif31jCLahg-AP3Q9woQwPTEVurFFhMQlxKvA9sQD64n37JmFfYsD6KFKvkGhn2-W7xrik32wvUlG2OV52kXNWEEW5eJSrJ_FH3n3gkm8K2_ExlqmSt78v9UN0S8z_8GUQEl8Dg9ceZvWo/s640/blogger-image--1390444755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif31jCLahg-AP3Q9woQwPTEVurFFhMQlxKvA9sQD64n37JmFfYsD6KFKvkGhn2-W7xrik32wvUlG2OV52kXNWEEW5eJSrJ_FH3n3gkm8K2_ExlqmSt78v9UN0S8z_8GUQEl8Dg9ceZvWo/s640/blogger-image--1390444755.jpg"></a></div>While it looks like a bunch of dry woods-well it is. But with visions that always come to pass, I am confidant that in the next year we will see this happen. The boys living on this property would be men that have been released from the juvenile jail and need a place to recapture what it's like to be in society as well as a safe place for them to be (rather than back on the streets with the gangs). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After we left the church we went to Cindy </div>And Terrence's house for lunch. We had packed sandwiches but the other folks with us didn't have anything. So, Bessy just started making tortillas and Cindy started the wood stove. This house was so incredibly humble. No more than 300 square feet, three rooms and two beds for four people. No electricity and no running water. Chickens for eggs and meat, mango trees in the fields and a breathtaking landscape. I felt like I was in the 1700s in the desert!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXCV2vX_bAUGYbXrSjPdErLhgjARfSADrQn6AT-d8JGHvomZ-QLg0kwt2ahP-opM0_oPS0r633AaGE0UrubotTcy82EaTZQg4AFvd_I6C9Cb1zM5aqwusH1yNjbw96SUw3smHh3VVpAu0/s640/blogger-image-2024876209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXCV2vX_bAUGYbXrSjPdErLhgjARfSADrQn6AT-d8JGHvomZ-QLg0kwt2ahP-opM0_oPS0r633AaGE0UrubotTcy82EaTZQg4AFvd_I6C9Cb1zM5aqwusH1yNjbw96SUw3smHh3VVpAu0/s640/blogger-image-2024876209.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCiG9HuOGEYy15Dq7osqe6rAGXcICCGuPBvg5y5nJsnNcJ8w3pZLoyp6KxIW3ZK4RiMm7Y5Ga7I3GEfixXShbrzh7FZQobCaJHGclQT57JOrXmbJG8PpdHsFHq-w6UlweURdLBzOyeT_U/s640/blogger-image-1989656350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCiG9HuOGEYy15Dq7osqe6rAGXcICCGuPBvg5y5nJsnNcJ8w3pZLoyp6KxIW3ZK4RiMm7Y5Ga7I3GEfixXShbrzh7FZQobCaJHGclQT57JOrXmbJG8PpdHsFHq-w6UlweURdLBzOyeT_U/s640/blogger-image-1989656350.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihI_fjC5sARHNXow5rXMHkfua2rBxEO67ekX1BrLKHLMu45sLpL4ZewfLBCqJOViKfjt0GBv0rstRORVeNPQZgJAuO7j21q1uNliWnBIejmxiGuvxt2MlLnGz6H03yDyO4GrShhmsaYY0/s640/blogger-image--479820220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihI_fjC5sARHNXow5rXMHkfua2rBxEO67ekX1BrLKHLMu45sLpL4ZewfLBCqJOViKfjt0GBv0rstRORVeNPQZgJAuO7j21q1uNliWnBIejmxiGuvxt2MlLnGz6H03yDyO4GrShhmsaYY0/s640/blogger-image--479820220.jpg"></a></div>J and Carlos picking mangos to bag and bring into the city to sell. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXiGWj3bI5wxYXfqG11X82-wA1u_poZP2n5tAB_jjBcHQkekYQSI20OTuod82dckcIwZJutFn8-e_g-XchCO9MBhWHBVSD2DlxZNZDJCqYlrkLwjNb9ktKM08KFCIHwNpIkYC19mHKEic/s640/blogger-image-1345064055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXiGWj3bI5wxYXfqG11X82-wA1u_poZP2n5tAB_jjBcHQkekYQSI20OTuod82dckcIwZJutFn8-e_g-XchCO9MBhWHBVSD2DlxZNZDJCqYlrkLwjNb9ktKM08KFCIHwNpIkYC19mHKEic/s640/blogger-image-1345064055.jpg"></a></div></div>The view in their front yard. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0E74rJTHM-k_JmMTHOQOBxkqOKYtT-ciOS4maOVQ7emUj35vQZHRJayvw_aKt3wCik1XHQYvq-lwXW1UHSEF9KdKNgPQwhfiv9Mulg7WV_k2GqDJj44pawj-fSC4pu24b-v2diDnqyXo/s640/blogger-image-478018467.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0E74rJTHM-k_JmMTHOQOBxkqOKYtT-ciOS4maOVQ7emUj35vQZHRJayvw_aKt3wCik1XHQYvq-lwXW1UHSEF9KdKNgPQwhfiv9Mulg7WV_k2GqDJj44pawj-fSC4pu24b-v2diDnqyXo/s640/blogger-image-478018467.jpg"></a></div>Of course I got some time with the kiddos. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgiR26rfUZYWA2q28FJ0SNJyc1GHJAkDs9NFU8_2a1luQ0zCmOGnBhIo9MilC-ETE_Konl2sK9Do_1izV1ZTfXhL9h-73nRuOVYzDA-ODIwcal2FwPdCsaR-tPhmYkC0XM7WkFxNuCOLA/s640/blogger-image--2004556623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgiR26rfUZYWA2q28FJ0SNJyc1GHJAkDs9NFU8_2a1luQ0zCmOGnBhIo9MilC-ETE_Konl2sK9Do_1izV1ZTfXhL9h-73nRuOVYzDA-ODIwcal2FwPdCsaR-tPhmYkC0XM7WkFxNuCOLA/s640/blogger-image--2004556623.jpg"></a></div></div>The view from our ride down the mountain. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisD3oIbZuLiJlXjECrbRgoIal7Fea4nzWMK9nLjiUrS5pEdHG8cadkxMbuqiqDzqmIJxkdUsMTOSv2qNnuoVP36xZQABkbMlrc26AApFAz2frnmNzCCKc-4oImYcxaTRFLtztKVV960QM/s640/blogger-image-930260732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisD3oIbZuLiJlXjECrbRgoIal7Fea4nzWMK9nLjiUrS5pEdHG8cadkxMbuqiqDzqmIJxkdUsMTOSv2qNnuoVP36xZQABkbMlrc26AApFAz2frnmNzCCKc-4oImYcxaTRFLtztKVV960QM/s640/blogger-image-930260732.jpg"></a></div>This is Brittany. I met her last year anxi was so glad to have her on our trip today. She reminds me of a great mix of Miriam and Lydia and she latches on immediately. She's actually Bessie's little sister, but knows her as her mother and she treats her as her daughter. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I LOVE this family, Carlos, Bessie and Brittany. Their stories are seriously unbelievable, and their Love for others is so grand. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So I would ask your prayers for them:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">- continued provisions for their family (and the other 4 folks living in their tiny 1 room home in the city)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">- for Bessie as she's taking classes in nursing school</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">- health for Carlos as he serves as a right hand man and works with Alvin and the ministry</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">- for Bessie as she has probably the biggest desire I've ever seen to have a child biologically</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">- for Brittany as she grows, that she would better understand why she is with Bessie</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-47167779223997153522016-05-10T21:56:00.001-04:002016-05-10T21:56:02.147-04:00MondayMornings in Honduras help me fully unwrap how Gid desires his people to live. Praising Him for the beautiful landscape before us, fellowship with believers, and prayers in abundance. Today was no less. <div>Our devotion in preparation for today was encouragement from Psalm 96-the psalm that we have used for preparing our own hearts for this week of ministry. May we always boldly proclaim "the Lord reigns" and declare his glory and marvelous works among all the peoples (Psalm 96:3)</div><div><br></div><div>Today, the guys spilt from the women. They went back to the house from Saturday to work on putting its walls up. Jeremy is totally in his element! This house built with all of the materials costs about $1500 and the land was about $1500 (but she has owned it for quite some time). They put the walls up, and watched the men construct the toilet, just like that. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4OPj0rycIgPl2aC07G8uXZvLB5gcYg8OEc5f3VwmsuqoTh6tz7yIQuijpmHw6hszIvCgE0zn4PdV-lWq-XvXdBPVoEBnA1lHWYFq3zprtpOfys1SR1-k_VGNtciAJ6SX4DcVz4-zSP8c/s640/blogger-image--466883681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4OPj0rycIgPl2aC07G8uXZvLB5gcYg8OEc5f3VwmsuqoTh6tz7yIQuijpmHw6hszIvCgE0zn4PdV-lWq-XvXdBPVoEBnA1lHWYFq3zprtpOfys1SR1-k_VGNtciAJ6SX4DcVz4-zSP8c/s640/blogger-image--466883681.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLoUmP33X5KdX6DoMNLzSiiQNRBOd3Dqi11ZZg7KLIvolTf03rQlF7ddThYpUVGu9srZ3jyboXnsb9gtC-3jhEvIUmWX9D6CV-r5FwZUXKBaGHjtDIhF6jLgeQlFXBI41t2LIjxzUXDbw/s640/blogger-image-1822087083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLoUmP33X5KdX6DoMNLzSiiQNRBOd3Dqi11ZZg7KLIvolTf03rQlF7ddThYpUVGu9srZ3jyboXnsb9gtC-3jhEvIUmWX9D6CV-r5FwZUXKBaGHjtDIhF6jLgeQlFXBI41t2LIjxzUXDbw/s640/blogger-image-1822087083.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFrRybOcN0tmPRwwI4AslbK4kHjdbpQKVQJ1KpjJXKotRbjzkoUv41kIomjDVAt_7NPTCsvRIeaB7TaoFvh7YLbOXM0NAdN55wLNZ_dTReXKCrTn9-SXpvnFuOTqFoxCOEHNqMIP-e3wA/s640/blogger-image--101798357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFrRybOcN0tmPRwwI4AslbK4kHjdbpQKVQJ1KpjJXKotRbjzkoUv41kIomjDVAt_7NPTCsvRIeaB7TaoFvh7YLbOXM0NAdN55wLNZ_dTReXKCrTn9-SXpvnFuOTqFoxCOEHNqMIP-e3wA/s640/blogger-image--101798357.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtG_enjs4X7_HC8sddvlN7eBEP0S21ttsCZTq8pAQ4FAnMvP_NcMREW45J-PrJnJl1N-mszLrBpt3PFjLEkrIpBoh8EiCk-i1rKx1TnWZpNn-y0p-QnWoRib_aITnLtqutWHnnX2CcCtE/s640/blogger-image--1674872379.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtG_enjs4X7_HC8sddvlN7eBEP0S21ttsCZTq8pAQ4FAnMvP_NcMREW45J-PrJnJl1N-mszLrBpt3PFjLEkrIpBoh8EiCk-i1rKx1TnWZpNn-y0p-QnWoRib_aITnLtqutWHnnX2CcCtE/s640/blogger-image--1674872379.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div><div>I went with the other women to the prison for the teenage girls and was reintroduced to a few familiar faces, Brenda and Nicole (who both speak English) and a few other girls. What they are doing now at the prison is holding academic classes and focusing on special trades. For the month of May they are doing Beauty school and paint/design. So upon our arrival, the girls welcomed us and painted our fingernails. I was able to walk around and chat some with the girls, though they seemed hesitant to respond. After connecting with one, they ended up fixing my hair too! </div><div>What happens is these girls are in the jail for all sorts of reasons (13-18yrs) and they have been members of different gangs. Once they arrive in the jail, there are still barrier walls in between the different gangs and the girls still carry a bit of hatred toward one another. It's quite a weight to carry, but you can tell by their looks at one another and their body language. I wish I could show this to you, but it is strictly forbidden to take any kind of personal belongings into the courtyard. But it's visions that stick with you for sure. </div><div><br></div><div>While the guys were still out, the ladies had a few hours of rest. I was able to pass most of the time on the swing on the porch overlooking the mountainside. I am preparing to "preach" at one of he churches in Wednesday evening for their devices. All of the men in our group have done this so far, and the women were asked to help. So I was chosen and encouraged to do so IN SPANISH!!!! So the afternoon was helpful in setting aside time to prepare a bit. I'll be focusing on the early chapters in Paul's letter to the Ephesians, sharing the encouragement we have as believers, and charging us to pray boldly and hold fast to the expectation of God's provisions. In all things, that God would be glorified. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpbdnNmlNBrqpSK2m24Kp6CqT_4nL-O9DcPW4KFi9T9vkdURrCfJ3aRHwHqfYlsPGN6G-XwBTXNwms6l2e2yCUvgQl8xhCJgHOW10RYD9RhvFTYAt7Hk_xkzBXBWgN4ysNbypeTtqCP6A/s640/blogger-image-345503889.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpbdnNmlNBrqpSK2m24Kp6CqT_4nL-O9DcPW4KFi9T9vkdURrCfJ3aRHwHqfYlsPGN6G-XwBTXNwms6l2e2yCUvgQl8xhCJgHOW10RYD9RhvFTYAt7Hk_xkzBXBWgN4ysNbypeTtqCP6A/s640/blogger-image-345503889.jpg"></a></div>Top five for Monday...you can pray for:</div><div>- the girls in the prison, and for their love for each other to grow</div><div>- the woman who will have a house by the end of the week</div><div>- continued unity among our group and those also here at the house</div><div>- safety while we travel, especially on our 2-3 hr road trip to the village tmrw (on the rocky winding roads)</div><div>- our little girls at home that we haven't had much of a chance to chat with, and we do miss them</div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-77034902576214569282016-05-09T10:33:00.001-04:002016-05-09T10:33:23.591-04:00SundayNaturally, on the Lord's day we worship-wherever we are. So, we went to Central Church of the mission organization today. It's the church that was started by Alvin about 16 years ago. It has a BEAUTIFULLY view of part of the city, but the driveway is quite wild to get to the building. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjekqW0LZMJJINn4yIRXgcsqnNDYPgey4Ypi0F-qJgDRMC9NbADfsA-k7h9kPPBqTY87bFsFPfL09uHXg_DH2SLpd5tN9J6L7wG9IlzvzfnvGZa28at-ZbOvgTXJNaRWhPQG_0-Ig2G4wE/s640/blogger-image--931971186.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjekqW0LZMJJINn4yIRXgcsqnNDYPgey4Ypi0F-qJgDRMC9NbADfsA-k7h9kPPBqTY87bFsFPfL09uHXg_DH2SLpd5tN9J6L7wG9IlzvzfnvGZa28at-ZbOvgTXJNaRWhPQG_0-Ig2G4wE/s640/blogger-image--931971186.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Services start at 930, and the praise and worship lasts about 45 minutes and is NOT timid. They always have sweet girls at the front dancing interpretively to the music. Some of the songs were even familiar to us, but obviously by in our native language so it can be a little frustrating to sing along. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq9BqltzWvU5vl15Y4zOlioC9Vr1hg9dMttChjqTkokOz-896WcwOsJtToVFgknDCrbpgv7rys0sKCRsGYtY3WDauO0dug9Bysk98t4ySwpUa17RefWtX8WX_jEfb7Z1Qn8mgyG8R27p0/s640/blogger-image--1126898876.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq9BqltzWvU5vl15Y4zOlioC9Vr1hg9dMttChjqTkokOz-896WcwOsJtToVFgknDCrbpgv7rys0sKCRsGYtY3WDauO0dug9Bysk98t4ySwpUa17RefWtX8WX_jEfb7Z1Qn8mgyG8R27p0/s640/blogger-image--1126898876.jpg"></a></div> Being Mother's Day, it was quite a celebration. Special songs, special sermon, and special food. It was wonderful to be back with this congregation again and to be encouraged by Pastor Andy's sermon. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW7iAo0nV_oYsoaPX34axKEmmkl4dqmokhIsFQPVXjoiWSAAN7irikmxZjGqQy2Nz7yuoIV-wJ_6bR3fCUaxcjopVyZGY_UwrNNbO48WRdeCbvxpdsSml0XQ-dKF4NE0HxSMMkMoNejQM/s640/blogger-image-1103517346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW7iAo0nV_oYsoaPX34axKEmmkl4dqmokhIsFQPVXjoiWSAAN7irikmxZjGqQy2Nz7yuoIV-wJ_6bR3fCUaxcjopVyZGY_UwrNNbO48WRdeCbvxpdsSml0XQ-dKF4NE0HxSMMkMoNejQM/s640/blogger-image-1103517346.jpg"></a></div>After the device, some of the men grabbed a barrel of the soup food and rolled it down the hill. It's a good thing there was a man to catch it on the other side or it would have rolled fast and far!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnEFBCNtoQa9vyuDnBP5cNQSTsDC93e7JR8-1VGmCC2g8Ww8rCybRkzPJysZpIs7RuXUjBOWekEvC8FNA8NJ1Tgz-93viKNAj6cPnyzzcpmosvbc6Cimvg-C0vmdGNQJYOIcESRKGR4Oo/s640/blogger-image--1123830102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnEFBCNtoQa9vyuDnBP5cNQSTsDC93e7JR8-1VGmCC2g8Ww8rCybRkzPJysZpIs7RuXUjBOWekEvC8FNA8NJ1Tgz-93viKNAj6cPnyzzcpmosvbc6Cimvg-C0vmdGNQJYOIcESRKGR4Oo/s640/blogger-image--1123830102.jpg"></a></div>As was our plan last year, we stopped at the Chinese restaurant and ate a montón de comida. It's sort of more culture shock seeing the Asians in that restaurant in Honduras than it is to actually be in Honduras. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxpeBX5AZnoDP7O7Uvupik2JOQXmaF8vFI9qXG-LXY8YWlKCAsRO4TNKpeRRCcJiqFbQD-t9NqnZbc93c-Oo0xB21l5naf9gIt6NmkkbL5qaCWoFr3BLVfI7Y7J1StRZ300HjZ6DhtlCI/s640/blogger-image-1931006091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxpeBX5AZnoDP7O7Uvupik2JOQXmaF8vFI9qXG-LXY8YWlKCAsRO4TNKpeRRCcJiqFbQD-t9NqnZbc93c-Oo0xB21l5naf9gIt6NmkkbL5qaCWoFr3BLVfI7Y7J1StRZ300HjZ6DhtlCI/s640/blogger-image-1931006091.jpg"></a></div>We had a moment to rest after lunch and entertained some guests of Alvin: Blast and Gloria blast is from Costa rice and his wife is a lawyer here in Honduras. We had an opportunity to learn about how long it would take and how much work it would be to become residents of Honduras (:)). Blast rides bikes in the Coyotes riding group (like a Harley club) and is also a big runner. So we had a lot to talk about!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Around 4 pm, about an hour after we were supposed to leave, we traveled to church at Feeding center One. On the way to the hillside (one of five sections of the city, this is the poorest) you pass by Potters Field-where the poorest of the poor are buried....or even dumped in a body bag. The cost for a funeral for the lower class costs about $300 and many folks don't want to pay that so they just dump them and hope they are eventually covered up by the land. We snapped a photo of a family putting flowers on a grave, probably in memory of Mothers Day. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW599dDwde1E-69wSiJatvmCSGorhEUy63p56pVGVygJeyFIQFV4HmylRAuN0Cwdi84pFR4S7MVlW7YWbkFQSrQ3PaXitc3Ndt2GGWKMjW_dbDkCD6CSGh7tjglLGGn7fWQV5q2Ch0cJc/s640/blogger-image-1719620503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW599dDwde1E-69wSiJatvmCSGorhEUy63p56pVGVygJeyFIQFV4HmylRAuN0Cwdi84pFR4S7MVlW7YWbkFQSrQ3PaXitc3Ndt2GGWKMjW_dbDkCD6CSGh7tjglLGGn7fWQV5q2Ch0cJc/s640/blogger-image-1719620503.jpg"></a></div>After a super bumpy and rocky ride, we arrived at church about an hour late. This is where, last year, I met the woman who was addicted to pain pills. And of course, she was there, sitting in front of us, kneeled just as before. I did not have a chance to talk with her this time, because there was a lot going on in the church!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">But on another note, the service was wildly about Mother's Day. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As you can see the church was crazy decorated. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKNQTBaIe6AejIRqEC-2T1WvfkLSGz362tcJa_V425dNCWdjqCPSz1KcQOHQwQvSE745yuUrdrYnNx-GXVTJqz3B5Olv6nVd6c8pbvbcLljB6gW9qi7hymBetMIbKP826oomzxzeLONGY/s640/blogger-image--1431192474.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKNQTBaIe6AejIRqEC-2T1WvfkLSGz362tcJa_V425dNCWdjqCPSz1KcQOHQwQvSE745yuUrdrYnNx-GXVTJqz3B5Olv6nVd6c8pbvbcLljB6gW9qi7hymBetMIbKP826oomzxzeLONGY/s640/blogger-image--1431192474.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The young girls did a dance in honor of the moms and Alan preached for us all. Throughout the entire service there were gifts and blessings and recognition for the mothers. I've never seen so much celebration!</div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilNncc2zp8kNgVU0CkXrgeHyiplWof08laYL_yDVI-UZOSQy7ShzaN8CY-IUFMuPufju5xMDr8o8h6FvvYJssw92_DkL4_8PJWc4vtFAwV3TQ7hfg54OpDttGeYPa9Pv1H7Fv7bJGbTNw/s640/blogger-image-279253058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilNncc2zp8kNgVU0CkXrgeHyiplWof08laYL_yDVI-UZOSQy7ShzaN8CY-IUFMuPufju5xMDr8o8h6FvvYJssw92_DkL4_8PJWc4vtFAwV3TQ7hfg54OpDttGeYPa9Pv1H7Fv7bJGbTNw/s640/blogger-image-279253058.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After the sermon, Alvin invited Barbara and I to pray for the mothers and the ladies. We surrounded them and asked for the Lord's blessing to be on their lives. Such a neat and powerful moment for us all. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWRC7UbRhoRJhguryihd7MGB23OnvODmbQ8wo52ZqOMDGOarBfQ-xy5arxUhdNmhhRcH9mbMURbDUxESS2GazkEZ76z1Hq3ISxOjQ6la0FRHgR7TUK_Cc2lgCBbwr6pk9wm_JAJLAGDx8/s640/blogger-image-87248996.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWRC7UbRhoRJhguryihd7MGB23OnvODmbQ8wo52ZqOMDGOarBfQ-xy5arxUhdNmhhRcH9mbMURbDUxESS2GazkEZ76z1Hq3ISxOjQ6la0FRHgR7TUK_Cc2lgCBbwr6pk9wm_JAJLAGDx8/s640/blogger-image-87248996.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We were gifted with dulce-cake-and celebrated and visited with some familiar faces and some sweet young children. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRIsAYklJ9LB7-MNiaQkGMLE3Q1YDsjC-c5cLViVllqMtIF1TQikgX4s23Y_SQCw1NKR4dO7onPPq_kJu47e9KfT6TQ4ExVcy7mS67qLxbXYcYAmloTfx9IASbHE0l3wY1iznkM0fOSLk/s640/blogger-image-774176505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRIsAYklJ9LB7-MNiaQkGMLE3Q1YDsjC-c5cLViVllqMtIF1TQikgX4s23Y_SQCw1NKR4dO7onPPq_kJu47e9KfT6TQ4ExVcy7mS67qLxbXYcYAmloTfx9IASbHE0l3wY1iznkM0fOSLk/s640/blogger-image-774176505.jpg"></a></div>Here is Andrea, Kayla and Fernanda (left to right). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">And here is Silva, the past teacher from Feeding Center two who we met last year. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Nw9ubpMMdGMHhQw3xVshlr9GLs98YrYU3_k_pcsaC2Kd_4g3RHV2zUwqN1DWSyU06_5RGkzOGZgq-sWdXCPotcqYBdtZKubBRLPJuL9XVOr8VY4DFH6fXbAlfLAmr6v98X_xicS0F1U/s640/blogger-image-1741739826.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Nw9ubpMMdGMHhQw3xVshlr9GLs98YrYU3_k_pcsaC2Kd_4g3RHV2zUwqN1DWSyU06_5RGkzOGZgq-sWdXCPotcqYBdtZKubBRLPJuL9XVOr8VY4DFH6fXbAlfLAmr6v98X_xicS0F1U/s640/blogger-image-1741739826.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">To finish off the evening, we returned home around 8 pm and had the best meal-the one I could eat every day....pupusas and plátanos. I was able to help fix some in the kitchen and learn the methods. A picture will settle and hopefully I can fix these when we get back home. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZhU95IzIrfI-vm82Ycg-6ToM1rwOqsQxaTpGmbge7jFpntgroo0HAV-5vAb0Nsln3e3iIjr14fQJcG9bJP4JY9HoSvOn3ia6RxY4Ha5D4wqtlHKRGUtmhUErD3Ci4oPkarVomOEIhWFw/s640/blogger-image-123918740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZhU95IzIrfI-vm82Ycg-6ToM1rwOqsQxaTpGmbge7jFpntgroo0HAV-5vAb0Nsln3e3iIjr14fQJcG9bJP4JY9HoSvOn3ia6RxY4Ha5D4wqtlHKRGUtmhUErD3Ci4oPkarVomOEIhWFw/s640/blogger-image-123918740.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-18640672326810965642016-05-08T23:34:00.001-04:002016-05-08T23:34:36.510-04:00SaturdayOur first full of mission was filled with all sorts of activities and experiences. Our first of the day was a visit to a house that's currently being constructed for a woman and her son. But the real first experience was the truck ride. Where we all pile in the back of the truck bed, stand up, and watch the city pass by at a ridiculously fast pace. Honduran driving is quite wild and I've learned it's all about expectation. You drive and expect everyone else to see you and know where you're going. So every time we step foot in the truck, I pray. <div><br></div><div>Back to the house: It's location is essentially off the side of a cliff. So here we are, BACKING down this road that's at a 45 degree angle, for what I believe to be straight up and down. Somehow we made it, the truck didn't move, and we praise God for an amazing parking brake!</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-gWR6nGdNHFa0y5WxJYO7HDGcgeK9Eg3N6-j72oXs7daLyfbM3fWGEDT30U23Eqf3J9SWOnJxcHPRMfi_9c852cRUIyvgj_2ybUgkhSCqzHmxLzSQAnOc_GOnQtAJtKB8iCl10zWWmGc/s640/blogger-image--241872038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-gWR6nGdNHFa0y5WxJYO7HDGcgeK9Eg3N6-j72oXs7daLyfbM3fWGEDT30U23Eqf3J9SWOnJxcHPRMfi_9c852cRUIyvgj_2ybUgkhSCqzHmxLzSQAnOc_GOnQtAJtKB8iCl10zWWmGc/s640/blogger-image--241872038.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPu-XUbXWxUZyhduEDS8pNFPog-VvF_hq19a-rbEpygOXbRXuGl3lb3RZZ8FV2_mixBN70HHIqa89I_uBp2w2onPTl0Xm9BT9BOfIy1CgGYzb9X6aBdGpiafDHfQ6_1aNbNQ_XVyg0Wq4/s640/blogger-image--1037577578.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPu-XUbXWxUZyhduEDS8pNFPog-VvF_hq19a-rbEpygOXbRXuGl3lb3RZZ8FV2_mixBN70HHIqa89I_uBp2w2onPTl0Xm9BT9BOfIy1CgGYzb9X6aBdGpiafDHfQ6_1aNbNQ_XVyg0Wq4/s640/blogger-image--1037577578.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8XuOFrdshvgsjYMDgU4Gj9eO-GsZhXrlHdZTGwLLyTYmk4deDg1iITl-Y-skaoMZmtzygC8DI132TqyqsQ6f9Fo5fMgWIGPtRZKhdBOchj-51FsNzjjuDcG1zZEqqVk725gKFlAwiUxo/s640/blogger-image--1824391774.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8XuOFrdshvgsjYMDgU4Gj9eO-GsZhXrlHdZTGwLLyTYmk4deDg1iITl-Y-skaoMZmtzygC8DI132TqyqsQ6f9Fo5fMgWIGPtRZKhdBOchj-51FsNzjjuDcG1zZEqqVk725gKFlAwiUxo/s640/blogger-image--1824391774.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVX8v5CAsgW2FUI8kCaASz6FPh60nW-89weLSOItBU3pyIHeMYYfmsDhnNCvlh6gOrVBlGnpRhLIQ8o2DkCJKSWhBZHwi9gk7eXcx3vgRHBY_JA8j25YKnEd5UOUoifqz9Nb-Nsbv6n74/s640/blogger-image--478086263.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVX8v5CAsgW2FUI8kCaASz6FPh60nW-89weLSOItBU3pyIHeMYYfmsDhnNCvlh6gOrVBlGnpRhLIQ8o2DkCJKSWhBZHwi9gk7eXcx3vgRHBY_JA8j25YKnEd5UOUoifqz9Nb-Nsbv6n74/s640/blogger-image--478086263.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>We did get an opportunity to rest some mid day, and it was needed. After lunch, the First stop was the church driving through town to get there and seeing all of the traffic-I have no clue how I'd ever learn to drive in the country since my depth perception is horrible!</div><div>At the church, we saw the bagillion barrels that were shipped in March filled with bags of dried soup. We grabbed a few and went on our way. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWQT2F3-JXk-APrKYQb6C6knShljiWzGg_mGzal7g358NDZqjsLlwwgE3J_nedEXGzuARmSEbKnSQwb0PzOimHinJ98KuoEygq2zMN3tVjlJHzMoIOMWwrHB0pf6dUiQwx0IahahuAS5c/s640/blogger-image--1354864712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWQT2F3-JXk-APrKYQb6C6knShljiWzGg_mGzal7g358NDZqjsLlwwgE3J_nedEXGzuARmSEbKnSQwb0PzOimHinJ98KuoEygq2zMN3tVjlJHzMoIOMWwrHB0pf6dUiQwx0IahahuAS5c/s640/blogger-image--1354864712.jpg"></a></div>The view from the church</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHhSyczoFvzqWz6Qp3gNDzogBwWE8eYOrDSPAYEPsWsaPATthswnQXE9ZO80MNw-qe3H1UoHS842hklcUs6UXscFDl3HPqke2g0MbRjHxertbKDLyxnW0WL6PYc73A6zm8uYTnZ6ojuGs/s640/blogger-image--465805264.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHhSyczoFvzqWz6Qp3gNDzogBwWE8eYOrDSPAYEPsWsaPATthswnQXE9ZO80MNw-qe3H1UoHS842hklcUs6UXscFDl3HPqke2g0MbRjHxertbKDLyxnW0WL6PYc73A6zm8uYTnZ6ojuGs/s640/blogger-image--465805264.jpg"></a></div>Each barrel contains 100 3 lb bags of sopa. That much food could feed lots and lots and lots of folks. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRqjxkDNbmJ8eYzJHrwNPzneMMcBg6EWkUvzhMLxYqN7kGZQ8TcQ0txfjMm5tkBWa358AbFR-M8qp7vU_nU9pJftzAmjU0X8TcUSaxhvWoF0roT4CwyPFwKgxrBXF02uREQPfFBKvEfVM/s640/blogger-image-300045660.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRqjxkDNbmJ8eYzJHrwNPzneMMcBg6EWkUvzhMLxYqN7kGZQ8TcQ0txfjMm5tkBWa358AbFR-M8qp7vU_nU9pJftzAmjU0X8TcUSaxhvWoF0roT4CwyPFwKgxrBXF02uREQPfFBKvEfVM/s640/blogger-image-300045660.jpg"></a></div>After that stop we had the opportunity to visit and participate in a dedication of a house that had just been finished. It was a sweet moment and opportunity to thank God for all of His provisions. We even got to pray for and lay hands on a little boy that had a bad skin rash all over his body. And somehow I ended up being the one to translate it into Spanish. Eek!!!! Praying in Spanish is something I'm still learning to do but it was a fabulous opportunity to practice. The house was very simple and all within its doors were filled with encouragement. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlYGD1Yj7Xj-psgjLfRNVWlRdZBTkC2lh-l0_Mv9kc79iwXUd-n0ooCHb7a7DVe3LQXygLHT4RViXMyazRzMSABOLmjJs2NvwFIUNoifHTtM-UrpzQIRhKo46-eOVIi3tm5s2hHaRgw8/s640/blogger-image-912740392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlYGD1Yj7Xj-psgjLfRNVWlRdZBTkC2lh-l0_Mv9kc79iwXUd-n0ooCHb7a7DVe3LQXygLHT4RViXMyazRzMSABOLmjJs2NvwFIUNoifHTtM-UrpzQIRhKo46-eOVIi3tm5s2hHaRgw8/s640/blogger-image-912740392.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlYGD1Yj7Xj-psgjLfRNVWlRdZBTkC2lh-l0_Mv9kc79iwXUd-n0ooCHb7a7DVe3LQXygLHT4RViXMyazRzMSABOLmjJs2NvwFIUNoifHTtM-UrpzQIRhKo46-eOVIi3tm5s2hHaRgw8/s640/blogger-image-912740392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbjKyrZDwgiL3SO8hma-pfdWjRvu1vV2JanIzvz2by50Y6kmddCCXh87Yf3OljVSmLeZZlyT7yRNLHSQCvAHTsjZzYjnErsNb0f_IQuF2CLtk89-n_tN7bONwrkeLOz0YdKQf3LPiDr1g/s640/blogger-image--943835950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbjKyrZDwgiL3SO8hma-pfdWjRvu1vV2JanIzvz2by50Y6kmddCCXh87Yf3OljVSmLeZZlyT7yRNLHSQCvAHTsjZzYjnErsNb0f_IQuF2CLtk89-n_tN7bONwrkeLOz0YdKQf3LPiDr1g/s640/blogger-image--943835950.jpg"></a>They do not go without great hospitality either - a HUGE bowl of chicken and rice was prepared for all of the guests. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Our next stop was the feeding center ONE but we had to get through town-a lot of traffic!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This feeding center is in one of the most dangerous neighborhoods. When I spoke about violence and the kids coming to school, this was the one place I was thinking about. Inside of the wires and gates there's a safety that just doesn't exist outside of the walls. It really is sad. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We had intended on preparing the soup and feeding that whole community, but we were running behind in time and they had already prepared it and were beginning to serve as we got there. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSfEz-giDSXvkVrnTaSpoUzejXsY9B091hbJLNPO1GJqvtgMsnIw9Zwj7p106Y09ZEGal5UQJQvyRH7HvJxOnqkjQRLyMLc7P6HPdeno8HZVY5dk82tv8DPmI7PIz6NU6WtnsMHhRz6lM/s640/blogger-image-455225542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSfEz-giDSXvkVrnTaSpoUzejXsY9B091hbJLNPO1GJqvtgMsnIw9Zwj7p106Y09ZEGal5UQJQvyRH7HvJxOnqkjQRLyMLc7P6HPdeno8HZVY5dk82tv8DPmI7PIz6NU6WtnsMHhRz6lM/s640/blogger-image-455225542.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">While we were at this place last year, there weren't many faces I recognized and the view of the city (at daytime and might) is absolutely stunning B b</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb1enUR2hgyVAMZJqGM3IGCCnvzqcL8B7BsT8OgYHiFcz6fTDm-2JtSstjKV0uAzKwpbu0DzcoipirJxp7rJowg9QMBdyPV_AgTnlsK8SiK6W3cc068fNHcDy6Oux4on6VVia16dioiYg/s640/blogger-image-1875610224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb1enUR2hgyVAMZJqGM3IGCCnvzqcL8B7BsT8OgYHiFcz6fTDm-2JtSstjKV0uAzKwpbu0DzcoipirJxp7rJowg9QMBdyPV_AgTnlsK8SiK6W3cc068fNHcDy6Oux4on6VVia16dioiYg/s640/blogger-image-1875610224.jpg"></a></div>. We gave them tortillas to eat, played with the kids, handed off tennis balls and little dolls and began searching out ways to bond with the golden and families. As you can see, I bonded well...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV6Tjw67vOSPNgQsOx_GBsMP0zNWgeEwhCObmQXSuAV6KwtBeIugPFXSdWSoZAdftwoFHjff03rooVslnaIRtHL5bcX_fczC1BTsq3xhxlgFC5IOQz66bFKLQrFnZnF9-Yt3VREhd2CSc/s640/blogger-image--1554601979.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV6Tjw67vOSPNgQsOx_GBsMP0zNWgeEwhCObmQXSuAV6KwtBeIugPFXSdWSoZAdftwoFHjff03rooVslnaIRtHL5bcX_fczC1BTsq3xhxlgFC5IOQz66bFKLQrFnZnF9-Yt3VREhd2CSc/s640/blogger-image--1554601979.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgcbOkXxTSlZC306rhb-VOhgOKOllNTYr9DZFeUWJXjLJ9WXIYMv4B5zoOCtDN-LmWE-CL85rJTOZLe3E4XOATIpQ1j2WvThIjh4a6bgpkFbmOe9ot4MPTQtPqAjV6-VzY1NxvHJL2gYY/s640/blogger-image--93002045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgcbOkXxTSlZC306rhb-VOhgOKOllNTYr9DZFeUWJXjLJ9WXIYMv4B5zoOCtDN-LmWE-CL85rJTOZLe3E4XOATIpQ1j2WvThIjh4a6bgpkFbmOe9ot4MPTQtPqAjV6-VzY1NxvHJL2gYY/s640/blogger-image--93002045.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjll-3PAU6N9UI-20A_l5JafWlN8ksWUzJnF9ybOjDvPxTolBB4Yt0llil07W5zbYmUdXZb2I2MP-3IzzjBm1aPuqaiDrNMGXXO7r4gEuRTzcBpkmtpXIHGLWdBePZtAUOamYlrP2Lhy1I/s640/blogger-image-2092548042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjll-3PAU6N9UI-20A_l5JafWlN8ksWUzJnF9ybOjDvPxTolBB4Yt0llil07W5zbYmUdXZb2I2MP-3IzzjBm1aPuqaiDrNMGXXO7r4gEuRTzcBpkmtpXIHGLWdBePZtAUOamYlrP2Lhy1I/s640/blogger-image-2092548042.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">At 6:30 we began the church service, sang praises all in Spanish (always my favorite part), and Jeremy had the opportunity to "preach" (#donttellpresbytery). It can be a little nerve racking having to share what God puts in our heart in front of 60-70 folks, young and old, that don't speak your language but he was faithful to Gods word and shared great encouragement from the Lord found in Philippians 2, to be reminded that Christ is the one that binds us together, because what he has done for us, we are to be of the same love, same mind, and same intent, no matter where we are in the world. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib1sHnHDWRudn3Z4y3DiKgOKLX0bbqhUwOx4kHBamPOeTtEngIY1ckDmUeemV29PZB5ByXCUWQ7QOgA9g7zfNuNKdmUp_5lP7OeRstGudS5QLndjDWt57OqWdYl1qd6o0zJfL12PlhKZM/s640/blogger-image-257213956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib1sHnHDWRudn3Z4y3DiKgOKLX0bbqhUwOx4kHBamPOeTtEngIY1ckDmUeemV29PZB5ByXCUWQ7QOgA9g7zfNuNKdmUp_5lP7OeRstGudS5QLndjDWt57OqWdYl1qd6o0zJfL12PlhKZM/s640/blogger-image-257213956.jpg"></a></div>After the service we had fixed another pot of soup and brought it to the folks at the service. We shared it's goodness, a hot warm, rich meal. These people are from the community and possibly don't here or see the gospel preached. But on this night,they were given 2 bags of soup for their families (one bag of soup contains 20-30 servings). (They could possibly eat one bag over the course of a week or two for each meal, depending on the amount!)<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgddnNfdylu9IxHrx-utI7qisTDxnwDG56vvBi75c44aQTSsGw9h5N9kHn_Ck5MJ0Pb89QvMj6LRyRdeuAtiUZr3pImBRF9-Sx5EdR0nLQzWFmAacDgl5hXtNsxRitrYJDEahyphenhyphenIbFVpCG8/s640/blogger-image--500266512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgddnNfdylu9IxHrx-utI7qisTDxnwDG56vvBi75c44aQTSsGw9h5N9kHn_Ck5MJ0Pb89QvMj6LRyRdeuAtiUZr3pImBRF9-Sx5EdR0nLQzWFmAacDgl5hXtNsxRitrYJDEahyphenhyphenIbFVpCG8/s640/blogger-image--500266512.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So many aspects of the day all blended into one. It Shirley reveals how many different ways the HOPE of the gospe can reach just about anyone. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We are looking forward to worship on Sunday and celebrating Mother's Day as it is a HUGE event here in Honduras b</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Here's the top five....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">- that the danger in the neighborhood around center one would weaken and more and more folks of that area would come to know the Lord</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">- the little 2 yr old boy, Jifete, who has a horrible skin rash making him I'll</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">- that the bug bites would be minimal (fire ants are everywhere!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">- our rest would encourage us to Benitez energized in the coming days</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">- <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">well adjustments to the food in our bodies</span></div></div></div></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-72376077036687237932016-05-06T22:25:00.001-04:002016-05-06T22:25:03.445-04:00So now we wait<div><br></div>It's 5:25 am and I'm sitting at the airport people watching. We've been up for three hours now and we are slowly starting to wake up. While we prayed for good rest last night, we got it. It was only four hours but it was a beautiful four hours. <div>So many emotions and thoughts currently running through our heads: are the girls going to be alright? Will they miss us? What happens if something goes different than planned? Will we make it on time? Did I remember everything? Will I resume speaking in a matter of moments/hours or will it take a day or two? <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Then, does it really matter? I laugh at that answer. </span></div><div>The last two weeks have been somewhat of a whirlwind. Last week, I was preparing for probably the biggest, most important, and certainly most difficult test. Staying up late at night and waking up early for exercise and study before the routine of "life" began and it wore on me. By the end of the test, I was a pile of mush. But I continued on for an out of town wedding that ended up being a rain event. By the time of my return home late Saturday evening, I was a man down. No voice, fever, and horribly ill. It was awful. No rest for the weary. But providentially, my doctor was available on Sunday and quickly prescribed some meds to knock out the bulk of whatever it was. By Tuesday I had been restored to about 50% of good health....but what a long week it was. Working extra a few days, Doctor appointments, and one thousand trips to Walmart, target and Walgreens. (Ive seen enough to know price points and toiletry selections at all!). </div><div>So, in a short story, it's been a full week, or two. And now, waiting for three hours at the airport is actually an answered prayer. </div><div>We just needed a moment to sit. A moment to reflect. A moment to pray. A moment to laugh. A moment to calm thoughts. A moment to expect. </div><div>We have been praying for this exact moment for 12 months now. Diligently and with full assurance that God would orchestrate THIS moment. And here we are. Now we wait. And we expect. </div><div>And so far, I know what I expect, God will do far beyond what I'm imagining. For that, I can barely contain the excitement.</div><div><br></div><div>So what can you pray for after reading this now:</div><div>- safe and timely flight to our connection - mental rest on the plane</div><div>- J's swirling head of "what should I expect?" </div><div>- our already softened hearts to be ready to accept what we experience</div><div>- completely open eyes to see God work in the small things-and the ability to recognize His providence through everything and be thankful</div><div><br></div><div>There ya have it. The top five for the morning. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9R5h-0R1Q5_ZWC01SrcUlRrb3GTRelyX8Ai5QkLmpI1SXk-6q8XJI-kQKGXrQjEjHtKTdMBXfAE8qzYBuG4jKO_sU8lnjyazB_WLwBHyuSGWLcen3o5jDVmbcAwaRtgKBQIhGnC_2JKs/s640/blogger-image-996480157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9R5h-0R1Q5_ZWC01SrcUlRrb3GTRelyX8Ai5QkLmpI1SXk-6q8XJI-kQKGXrQjEjHtKTdMBXfAE8qzYBuG4jKO_sU8lnjyazB_WLwBHyuSGWLcen3o5jDVmbcAwaRtgKBQIhGnC_2JKs/s640/blogger-image-996480157.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-86218376689377667712016-05-06T22:24:00.001-04:002016-05-06T22:24:40.934-04:00Rest for body, soul and mindWe've hit a wall. We have all been up since 2/230 am Friday morning and it's now 8:15 pm in Honduras (10:15 in SC). 20+ hours makes a body weary. <div>Personally, my travel today has been rough. I felt ill most of the day, my blood pressure dropped right before our decent into Teguc and I thought I'd be having another Philadelphia moment (where they cleared airspace for us to land immediately because I had an episode...). It took about an hour to regain the strength, but we got off the plane, into Honduras, and with a bit of fresh air and familiar faces, I began to settle in. </div><div>We've already experienced great hospitality from Alvin and Nelly and are ready to rest. </div><div>We have been told a brief schedule of the week, which will begin as soon as we wake in the morning. Our first hands on ministry will be at one of the day centers. We will prepare some of the food that was recently shipped here (over 1,000,000 servings of food!!)</div><div>We are all excited and ready for the ministry opportunities for the week. Here are the top five for the night:</div><div>- sweet, solid, safe rest</div><div>- ease of a beginning migraine</div><div>- rest and recovery for Nelly</div><div>- quick adjustment to time changes and schedule</div><div>- our team of six to have many more opportunities to fellowship</div><div> </div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-58471413158744662882016-04-14T17:57:00.001-04:002016-04-14T19:29:40.477-04:00God is on the moveWednesday night, our family had a fabulous privilege to travel to a sister church in Chester, a few towns over, to share about this Honduras journey that we can't stop talking about lately. We're good friends with the pastor and his family, so obviously it was a nice time to reconnect our families, but it also happened to be the first time our family has been to church since October on a Wednesday evening. (I was anxious about bedtime and how it would affect behavior and attitudes on Thursday but far more important was our family being present all together for our first real sharing in front of a congregation about these mission hopes and desires.)<div><br></div><div><br><div>These friends were SO welcoming. We of course felt right at home and the girls didn't skip a beat when it came to mingling. </div><div><br></div><div>In the preparation of the presentation, it seemed a bit difficult for J to really be as involved as I was, just because he had never been before so he didn't have much to share. But as he gathered important facts about the country and basic trip itself, I could see him really become overcome with desires to know more. This made my heart so happy!!</div><div>We put together a little power point and covered the basics. Then I followed up with a little more history and testimony of my past time in the country and how we feel God moving in our lives to pursue further ministry there. </div><div>Y'all. I can't help but be excited. God IS on the move in our life and in everyone of those that surrounded us last night to pray for us, encourage us, support us, and truly desire to know "why is it that this gal is so passionate?!" </div><div><br></div><div>We've now surpassed the point of being amazed in the Lord's provisions. And when we pray for God to do far beyond more than we can ask or imagine, I guess that's where we find ourselves now. :)</div><div><br></div><div>I spoke a little last night about how God's provisions and protection in my life have brought me to a place of praising God (inwardly). But my time in Honduras brought a new facet of Christian living to life: bringing GLORY to God through all things (outwardly). And we couldn't be more pumped to do that. So we praise God and pray that our testimonies would bring glory to him. </div><div>Our verse of encouragement over these last several months has been this:</div><div><i>Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all peoples! </i>(Psalm 96:3) So, I won't stop, can't stop, and will not pause from expressing our joy, HOPE and gratitude!!!</div><div><br></div><div>It's so encouraging to see others get excited for us and about the upcoming trip. We take every piece of spoken support straight to our hearts and return thanks for it. </div><div>There is a dear lady close to my heart in these last years...she told me the other day she can't help but think of us every time she hears "God is on the Move" by 7th time down. And now when I listen to it, I smile. Not because we said "here I am, send me" but rather because in sharing these pieces of our heart and greatest desires, others are seeing how God truly is on the move. Here, there, and everywhere. And that is the most important thing ever!!</div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafwdT0VRZlJ0JEoulgaTbnxOCzOEH0EXzhhJT6s3RFzPBlw8ZLJiKv2c6AJpvcwPaDrC4sqXbOpwwN5gf74qi9pqtlbeMGyNpsMMmmLdFFbhQnQi4Ht79-GUOYEa_JIXPRuo9N9J-ZII/s640/blogger-image-46668925.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafwdT0VRZlJ0JEoulgaTbnxOCzOEH0EXzhhJT6s3RFzPBlw8ZLJiKv2c6AJpvcwPaDrC4sqXbOpwwN5gf74qi9pqtlbeMGyNpsMMmmLdFFbhQnQi4Ht79-GUOYEa_JIXPRuo9N9J-ZII/s640/blogger-image-46668925.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-7968222558037545672016-04-08T16:47:00.001-04:002016-04-08T22:42:44.471-04:00Watching it unfoldThe Ghent girls have been so involved in our Honduras trip and seem to carry the same excitement that Jeremy and I have for the week. Everyday for the last few weeks we hear "how many more days til Honduras?" And up until today, we'd respond with some large number, and lost count. But today, an exclamation of "we're just one month away!" Took me by surprise. ONE MONTH. FOUR WEEKS. 28 DAYS. 672 HOURS. It's getting so real! <div>11 months ago, upon my return from Tegucigalpa, I longed with such emotion to return to that great city. Not because it was "fun" and not because the fashion and food were affordable. It wasn't because I took a week away from mothering, nor was it because I got a week of "vacation" from teaching. Instead, I was determined to go back because God had stirred up such a desire to do the hard, long, and draining work of ministry with the people in that city. Though part of me was a little skeptical-Jeremy won't be as excited and the trip will fall through. </div><div>My soul was a bit downcast in the months that followed, in the uncertainty of how we would actually get back to Teguc. We began praying for the opportunity, the logistics, the financial responsibility, and the "what happens next?" part. We reached out to our nearest of friends and family and pleaded for their prayers for us on this journey. We sent support letters to a handful of these folks and asked to pray for these specifics:</div><div>1. For Jeremy's up to date passport to return in expedited time (without paying expediting fees)</div><div>2. To secure financial support for our trip. </div><div>3. To arrange care for the Ghent girls in our absence. </div><div><br></div><div>These three were burdens on our hearts and as we began to share with others that we were pursuing this call, affirmation came flying from every direction. Within a week, over half of the monetary support was delivered in the mail. And by the next week (13 days after applying for the renewal), we received Jeremy's new passport. While we continued to receive support and encouragement for the trip, Gods provisions through his people were confirming our desires. We pleaded even more as we realized arranging care for the girls was going to prove to be more difficult than we had hoped. Our families, though they support us greatly, were unable to assume primary care for the girls over the entirety of the trip. We were discouraged, realizing A. We couldn't go without having secured their care and B. They couldn't go with us this time. </div><div><br></div><div>We asked a few folks, but all doors closed. Until this past week, literally out of nowhere, a couple from the church inquired if we had made arrangements yet, then offered to keep them Sun-Saturday of the trip. Friends, it was as if I heard the trumpets blast and it showered sunshine to blind me!!! They had seen our prayer requests in the church newsletter and had prayed about offering. </div><div><br></div><div>So, now, four weeks out, we are so blown away at how God provides so specifically when you pursue him and does far beyond what we can imagine. </div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-62371963170028700802016-03-23T22:20:00.001-04:002016-03-23T22:28:45.472-04:00Easter EggsFrom the several years I served on ministry staff after college and before L was born always encouraged me to present the Truths of the gospel in unique ways. Our Christmas programs weren't descriptive of Santa Claus, and when it came to Easter, no bunny was ever the center of attention. But somehow, we couldn't move away from the classic egg hunt (not to be confused with an "Easter Egg Hunt"). So, it was more about the Resurrection!!! Resurrection!!! Resurrection!!!! then, a few minutes to grab some eggs.<br>I lead 80+ sweet preschoolers (ages 2-5) every Monday in chapel, and the Easter story is one of my favorites to share every year! This year, I wanted to do something a little different to span over all of the ages of the children, so I decided to do a shortened version of the classic Resurrection eggs. And, behold, the "bunny" never showed up. This is a great, simple and easy way to remember the basics of the gospel-so adults will benefit too in hearing the message of HOPE. Share this message with as much gusto as you can and as often as you can!!<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSP_z3K6Il8mBMijeOoGcXIrZWOViQwLrIhuvW5qgxGyYhgnErr0f8dOgX9iJcDsFEPQOM1wuVJj4VUWdDu-PJF3VDdwDzj58LX6ppuhqVaca01EQ3ORTGEB7DYActBBRMNG0lcpHw1Ts/s640/blogger-image-1773718210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSP_z3K6Il8mBMijeOoGcXIrZWOViQwLrIhuvW5qgxGyYhgnErr0f8dOgX9iJcDsFEPQOM1wuVJj4VUWdDu-PJF3VDdwDzj58LX6ppuhqVaca01EQ3ORTGEB7DYActBBRMNG0lcpHw1Ts/s640/blogger-image-1773718210.jpg"></a></div><br>
Gather 6 different colored plastic eggs. Gather a heart, bandaid, cross, stone, and a butterfly (simple cutouts of the heart, cross and butterfly work well!). Put one object in the 5 different eggs (the other egg will be empty). Here is the explanation for each egg.<br>
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1. Put the heart in the first egg. <br>
God's love is so big and wide. He loves each us of us so much, that he created the world and all of the beauty around us for us to enjoy. His love is for everyone! (John 3:16)<br>
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2. Put the bandaid in the second egg.<br>
Unfortunately, we do things that make God sad all of the time, every day. It's like we are sad too, because we have boo boos (that's what we use bandaids for anyway, right?!). God knew that we would need something to heal our boo boos and protects everyday. (Romans 3:23)<br>
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3. Put the cross in the third egg.<br>
Because we do those bad things (what we call sins), God had a plan to help us - more than just a bandaid. He would change the world forever by telling his Son, Jesus, to die on the cross, even those Jesus didn't deserve to die. He was so perfect and never made God sad. But, God loved the world so much that he sent Jesus to die for us. (John 3:16; 19:17-18)<br>
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4. Put the stone in the fourth egg.<br>
After Jesus' death, the guards took him off the cross and wrapped him in white linens and laid him in a tomb. Then they rolled a stone, so big and so heavy, at the entrance of the tomb and guards kept watch to make sure no one came near the tomb. (Matthew 27:59-60)<br>
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5. Leave the 5th egg empty.<br>
Three days after Jesus' death, some of his friends were on their way to the tomb to pray. They were sad that their friend had died in such a horrible way. But when they arrived, they saw that the stone in front of the tomb had been rolled away. Concerned, they looked inside and only saw the white linens that wrapped Jesus' body. Frightened, they heard a voice speak to them from behind "Don't be afraid! He is not here, for he has risen!" They were so excited to know that Jesus was alive and wanted to tell everyone. (Matthew 28:5-6)<br>
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6. Put the butterfly in the last egg.<br>
It is so sweet that Jesus isn't dead, but now alive! Because of Jesus' death and that he rose from the dead, we can have new life when we follow Jesus. When we love Jesus, we become a "new creation", much like how the caterpillar turns into a "new life" as a butterfly. The Bible tells us that anyone "if anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation. The old has gone, the new is come!" (2 Corinthians 5:17) We can have new life in Christ, because he died for us.<br>
<br><br>Make this as exciting as you can-aren't you JOYFUL in your new life?!<br>
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<br><!--2-5--></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-81147708083385962082016-03-06T13:31:00.001-05:002016-03-06T13:38:01.213-05:00A return<span style="font-family: 'Tw Cen MT Condensed'; font-size: 18pt;">Dear friends,</span><br>
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<span style="font-family: 'Tw Cen MT Condensed'; font-size: 18pt;">It is with great excitement that I share with you, that two months from today, Lord willing, I will return to Tegucigalpa, Honduras, but with Jeremy joining me this time for another week of mercy ministry. We have been praying for the opportunity since before I even landed on US soil from last year's trip. God continues to stir our hearts and we are excited to see what is next - for the the immediate future and long term - for our family. There is so much to accomplish before we leave and we extend our hearts to ask for help; prayerfully and financially. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Tw Cen MT Condensed'; font-size: 18pt;">As always, a new year can</span><span style="font-family: 'Tw Cen MT Condensed'; font-size: 18pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Tw Cen MT Condensed'; font-size: 18pt;">bring new opportunities, celebrations, achievements, and growth, and for this, we are excited for 2016!</span><span style="font-family: 'Tw Cen MT Condensed'; font-size: 18pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Tw Cen MT Condensed'; font-size: 18pt;">God has been faithful in His provisions and protection over our family and those around us, and in this last year brought great perspective to our ministry as a family.</span><span style="font-family: 'Tw Cen MT Condensed'; font-size: 18pt;"> We</span><span style="font-family: 'Tw Cen MT Condensed'; font-size: 18pt;"> are excited to share with you a bit about 2015 and give you insight to what we are looking forward to most in 2016.</span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; font-size: 18.0pt; language: en-US; mso-ansi-language: en-US; mso-ascii-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-default-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latin-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latinext-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed";">Last May, I joined a team of 7 other adults from Tirzah ARP Church and my own church, First ARP Church in Rock Hill, SC for a mission trip to Tegucigalpa, Honduras. While there for a week, we served alongside the ministry staff of Manos Extendidas (Extended Hands) in the community of the most populated city in the country. Alvin and Nelly, missionaries and leaders of the ministry, instructed us each day in the ministries where we would serve, giving background and history of the people we would meet and how we could best share our testimonies in a cross-cultural experience (and in a non-native language)! Many of you have already heard the stories of meeting people and moments that were life-changing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix99-8D8FOrwy7iWsGOqOiaBWwO98B2f4Ssa_i8upeWMPv6mL4VqxBZYD6an5SuRSa37dFfWi_fMlxXucf8ZdslaS8I36pppPokK4GOW0PM7KX52iGejsCdh4M_vodzZH1oVzcnaB6SxE/s1600/IMG_2890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix99-8D8FOrwy7iWsGOqOiaBWwO98B2f4Ssa_i8upeWMPv6mL4VqxBZYD6an5SuRSa37dFfWi_fMlxXucf8ZdslaS8I36pppPokK4GOW0PM7KX52iGejsCdh4M_vodzZH1oVzcnaB6SxE/s320/IMG_2890.JPG" width="320"></a></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; font-size: 18.0pt; language: en-US; mso-ansi-language: en-US; mso-ascii-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-default-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latin-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latinext-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed";">And because I could speak Spanish, I had the opportunity to teach Bible lessons to young children and share the Truth of the Gospel after a church service with a woman addicted to pain pills. In “Teguc” we were simply the hands and feet of spreading God’s love however we could with whomever we could. The Lord’s presence was in our coming and our going, everywhere we went.</span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; font-size: 18.0pt; language: en-US; line-height: 114%; mso-ansi-language: en-US; mso-ascii-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-default-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latin-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latinext-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed";">The landscape of the city was absolutely phenomenal. One morning before breakfast, I hiked up a mountain behind the Manos Extendidas house and was able to see a breathtaking view of a lesser populated region in the valley. On that mountain, the Lord brought great encouragement and deepened a desire to serve the people of that neighborhood in a permanent capacity. Jeremy and I have prayed diligently for the people of Honduras and for an opportunity to return and serve as partners there, and potentially seek opportunities for how the Lord could use our entire family there in the upcoming years. These things give us great excitement!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; font-size: 18.0pt; language: en-US; line-height: 114%; mso-ansi-language: en-US; mso-ascii-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-default-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latin-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latinext-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed";"><br></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; font-size: 18.0pt; language: en-US; mso-ansi-language: en-US; mso-ascii-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-default-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latin-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latinext-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed";">The Lord always keeps His promises. In just a few short months, Jeremy and I have an opportunity to serve at Manos Extendidas with another team of adults in May. We are thrilled, but we understand that this opportunity comes with its share of needs. You can join us and be an integral part of this ministry, too! First, we seek your prayers. Pray for us, for safety in travels, for good health, for logistics in caring for M and L in our absence, for the preparation of our mission, for Alvin and Nelly, for the people in Honduras to be receptive to the Good News they hear and love they receive, for positive relational building among other team members, and for language acquisition to continue to grow. All of these things need constant prayer and we would be most grateful if you would become prayer partners with us before, during, and after our trip.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; font-size: 18.0pt; language: en-US; mso-ansi-language: en-US; mso-ascii-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-default-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latin-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latinext-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed";">Because Jeremy and I will both join the mission team this year, there is great financial need as well. The total cost for both of us will be approximately $2400, but we are grateful for our supportive church that will fund a portion of that cost. As a couple, we are responsible for raising $1200. We know God abundantly provides more than we can imagine each day, and reaching this financial need is no exception. As you commit to praying for us, will you also pray how you may support us financially? If you feel you could participate in this way, you may send a monetary gift to us before April 1</span><span lang="en-US" style="font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; font-size: 11.9879pt; language: en-US; mso-ansi-language: en-US; mso-ascii-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-default-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latin-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latinext-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed";"><sup>st</sup></span><span lang="en-US" style="font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; font-size: 18.0pt; language: en-US; mso-ansi-language: en-US; mso-ascii-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-default-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latin-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latinext-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed";"> (via PayPal- amandaghent@yahoo.com) or to our church with "Ghent-Honduras" in the memo. We are so grateful for your support, in any way, and we look forward to “extending your hands” (Manos Extendidas) as we minister to and through the people of Honduras.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; font-size: 18.0pt; language: en-US; mso-ansi-language: en-US; mso-ascii-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-default-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latin-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latinext-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed";">You are such an important part of our family and we are thankful to have supporters to our right and left, in front and behind us. We will keep you informed about our trip, specific prayer needs as they arise, and our days while we are in Tegucigalpa in May. You may find Honduras updates here as the weeks continue (</span><span lang="en-US" style="font-family: 'Tw Cen MT Condensed'; font-size: 18pt;"><a href="http://www.heymomitsmeagain.blogspot.com/">www.heymomitsmeagain.blogspot.com</a>)</span><span lang="en-US" style="font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; font-size: 18.0pt; language: en-US; mso-ansi-language: en-US; mso-ascii-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-default-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latin-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latinext-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed";">. Thank you for serving the body of Christ along with the Ghent family!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; font-size: 18.0pt; language: en-US; mso-ansi-language: en-US; mso-ascii-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-default-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latin-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latinext-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed";">Amanda and Jeremy Ghent<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tw Cen MT Condensed;"><span style="font-size: 24px;">c/o First ARP Church</span></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US" style="font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; font-size: 18.0pt; font-style: italic; language: en-US; mso-ansi-language: en-US; mso-ascii-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-default-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latin-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latinext-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed";">Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever. Amen.</span><span lang="en-US" style="font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; font-size: 18.0pt; language: en-US; mso-ansi-language: en-US; mso-ascii-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-default-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latin-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed"; mso-latinext-font-family: "Tw Cen MT Condensed";"> Ephesians 3:20-21<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-90466601122675878652016-02-25T12:48:00.001-05:002016-02-25T12:48:22.264-05:00Pinching PenniesWhen J and I first got married, every single meal we ate was carefully planned for and prepared, sometimes a week ahead of time and frozen. We were wildly prepared for dinners and flexibility with meals and fairly well on spending. As we got more settled into "life" then life with a child, then life with children, we slacked (who am I kidding...I slacked!!) on meal planning and shopping prudently. Perhaps we were careless, unhealthy, and went out as we desired. But, tough times call for strapping down. Nov-February of each year is always teeth grinding....will there be enough money after we pay last years medical deductible and the start of this years, car insurance, life insurance AND Christmas gifts?!<div>So in December we committed back to our savvy meal shopping and thoroughly enjoying our meals at home no matter what. And, we tried to keep it simple, since we still have dinner on the table by 5 pm most night. </div><div>We went out to eat on New Year's Eve, and went over 5 weeks before dining out-and even then we paid with those with gift cards!</div><div>I quickly discovered a few things:</div><div>-we spent less planning for 8 days of meals (an extra just in case we changed our minds) than we did planning for 5 (weekday meals)</div><div>- it's easier to spend money on breakfast than any other meal</div><div>- we can now effectively spend $40 less than our weekly grocery budget from two years ago (when our little people didn't eat like big people)</div><div>- we have about 2.5 weeks worth of dinner meals that we have the freedom to rotate</div><div>- we are committed to eating our leftovers as to not waste the prepared meal</div><div>- each week has a "splurge item" and it's super fun for the girls and I to choose when we are out shopping (sugary cereal week is probably the most looked forward week each month😂)</div><div>- the grocery trip has always been, but even more so now with my opinionated girls, a favorite pastime. We learn so much about our food, reading, people, and "sales"</div><div><br></div><div>We took the bill from our last meal out (with just me and J) and compared some prices. We can fix 5-6 dinners (to fed 4-6 people) for the price of one night out. Totally worth it when you're trying to save money!!!</div><div><br></div><div>So what do we fix?? These meals cost us between $4-9 a piece (4-6 servings). And we have left overs for lunch or dinner the next day. <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Tacos, Chinese chicken w/fried rice (think general tso), crock pot BBQ chicken sandwiches, bow tie chicken pasta w/creamy ranch sauce, turkey tenderloin w/veggies, and some of these warm-fill-you-up meals:</span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzgvFxKmB_xl2Sccr_TVG-cg5zhAw-aZPUJLXUxQLAQkZEN20yCtLc1ep6vZgnfiuMdxORby8snfcG0AIGWRR1FslXPZGkHBoLhhFgwy5u0-HSUUlZGJ9DKZCw237789olpzzSqG9yFAY/s640/blogger-image-1503713869.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzgvFxKmB_xl2Sccr_TVG-cg5zhAw-aZPUJLXUxQLAQkZEN20yCtLc1ep6vZgnfiuMdxORby8snfcG0AIGWRR1FslXPZGkHBoLhhFgwy5u0-HSUUlZGJ9DKZCw237789olpzzSqG9yFAY/s640/blogger-image-1503713869.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Nana's chicken pot pie</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8V-ntWNKUuLzouuaDLZse1ZyXdHtnvJg3-K4Dzb9BNqkXNVIpjMEmbun_JXL3o9ozwzGiCT6-4K5HN-weaEC7t5E2OG3g9wr0nSua2vcAbbYSUY1z8BkDmGGl16JHQ7ENA6_dWgCI_pU/s640/blogger-image-624460631.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8V-ntWNKUuLzouuaDLZse1ZyXdHtnvJg3-K4Dzb9BNqkXNVIpjMEmbun_JXL3o9ozwzGiCT6-4K5HN-weaEC7t5E2OG3g9wr0nSua2vcAbbYSUY1z8BkDmGGl16JHQ7ENA6_dWgCI_pU/s640/blogger-image-624460631.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Chicken casserole</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ZBtyDbwQM8BMczKIcEV4U1i1N1Qj8H7nCZ5MXuiSMa7P1XQKsFRYYWDfq_nCPidqc1s5E8eyOpyRviabQVFS1jz4aOKztIJpYTTYgOZG8Tm9ilM7ROhrRp6zR_43rxM6wcMG4txdK4c/s640/blogger-image-999148783.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ZBtyDbwQM8BMczKIcEV4U1i1N1Qj8H7nCZ5MXuiSMa7P1XQKsFRYYWDfq_nCPidqc1s5E8eyOpyRviabQVFS1jz4aOKztIJpYTTYgOZG8Tm9ilM7ROhrRp6zR_43rxM6wcMG4txdK4c/s640/blogger-image-999148783.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Homemade pizza-EVERY WEEK :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhasyMmB5CEQZYleWYqunbvqlpA4s-8NnKrF6aPU8lCj86paFEJuy8N-IFPrJkyhAjP06viBxRsQKahmftAxETI1j7IZMNtfU_IMU_xN8jYmmhflEG-wK1kF_4sdrBjTYex0GZR9JHbyvc/s640/blogger-image--2075586978.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhasyMmB5CEQZYleWYqunbvqlpA4s-8NnKrF6aPU8lCj86paFEJuy8N-IFPrJkyhAjP06viBxRsQKahmftAxETI1j7IZMNtfU_IMU_xN8jYmmhflEG-wK1kF_4sdrBjTYex0GZR9JHbyvc/s640/blogger-image--2075586978.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Minestrone soup </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRtWJui1jJ18jFj4BM7NytOYbpWDLhLlxqokjpflmvwzPuTGFWx8Ku7O1J3UNLqzZWiF0iEs04T0t8iKkSgrniJtILiCGEO3NuhwF6ummz4jYv03cDgJXaSxsra6mF7asBRwn11FaGMg4/s640/blogger-image-2097661445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRtWJui1jJ18jFj4BM7NytOYbpWDLhLlxqokjpflmvwzPuTGFWx8Ku7O1J3UNLqzZWiF0iEs04T0t8iKkSgrniJtILiCGEO3NuhwF6ummz4jYv03cDgJXaSxsra6mF7asBRwn11FaGMg4/s640/blogger-image-2097661445.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Breakfast is always a winner!!-more elaborate like this, or just a simple casserole. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So much freedom and fun in being together in this whole strategy! Always up for something new too!</div><br></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-53348235726497248262016-02-19T08:07:00.001-05:002016-02-19T08:07:48.601-05:00The anniversary<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSZ2vaL2HdfAjt_MYPa7Ff7f75U-NdIRM591ocM-oFR3Zvrga0Efy71a_YLR85GfN1Lqla_ylqnLv13e4MtPg4ZYK3epZ7B2Fc7veB9IVUGJK6YsTldYZUIQagDhaRgXrcY4Mk9HzDNrM/s640/blogger-image--655539154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSZ2vaL2HdfAjt_MYPa7Ff7f75U-NdIRM591ocM-oFR3Zvrga0Efy71a_YLR85GfN1Lqla_ylqnLv13e4MtPg4ZYK3epZ7B2Fc7veB9IVUGJK6YsTldYZUIQagDhaRgXrcY4Mk9HzDNrM/s640/blogger-image--655539154.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>"This is the day that the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24</div><div><br></div>It's come again, all too soon, another year has past and today we remember the crispness of the air and the beautiful sunshine that came through the clouds while we sat by my mother's bedside in the quiet corner in our home. Where, surrounded by all of the family and a few friends, we witnessed the last breath on earth for that sweet lady. Today marks 7 years since her death and sometimes I wonder if I'm waiting for some large emotional attack to occur at any moment. I almost never know what state I'll be in on this day, but it seems that as the years go on, my poor distraught self disappears more and more. I don't know if that's a sign of "growing up" or what, but I think that's happening a lot lately (ahhhh I'm getting old!)<div><br></div><div>This month is quite a mix of remembrances- mom's death, the rough three weeks we had 4 years ago when Ludia was born in severe respiratory distress, and another comes to mind=celebrating 16 years of owning my violin. I had to put it in the shop for the first time in 16 years earlier this month and the whole 10 days it was away I was a wreck. That's my outlet and I need to play!!! My parents got it for me as a high school graduation present right before I went to play with the All-state orchestra that year. It was such an expensive stretch for them then and sign a sacrifice. But I think they were well pleased with how it got me through college and practically paid for me to go to school. :)</div><div><br></div><div>Mom always loved when I played (but not practiced) and so she had requested earlier on in her treatment that I be there to play happy, uppity music when she finished her last round of radiation. That day at the clinic was filled with so much joy. We thought her tumor would soon be gone and she'd regain hair, strength and life back. </div><div><br></div><div>It seemed to be a miserable 18 months that would follow until the last straw was pulled and she ended up in a hospice bed in the corner of our living room. She was unresponsive for the most part, unable to move and we simply waited around the clock until she would stop breathing. </div><div>Then, I got out my violin, and played for two solid hours. Hymns and melodies from the hymn book on and on and on. I knew she had a few favorites and we had ours, but it was some of the most peaceful two hours we spent just hours before her death. It put us in a state of worship and we'd sing along with the praises of God's faithfulness, his mercy to us, his provisions in our lives, his goodness and his presence always, and the promises he has for us. </div><div>I remember those moments as if they happened minutes ago. They were so real and pure. </div><div>Shouldn't that be like our everyday? Not just in the midst of our sadness (or our joy), but that we would turn to worshipping our Creator of ALL things. </div><div>I think as the years go on, I learn more and more about the compassion of the Father especially when I comb through memories of mom's illness. And it only points to worship and praise. And for that, I'm thankful for the beautiful orchestration of the sickness, death, and healing of an amazing, wonderful woman. </div><div>May today be filled with praise to our Great God. May you be filled with His presence and may his love overflow out of you so that you shower it on your neighbor. </div><div><br></div><div><div>“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.””</div><div>John 13:34-35 ESV</div><div><br></div></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-26865303521324725602016-01-27T14:17:00.000-05:002016-01-27T19:13:17.246-05:00Using God's Word to correct and train...part 3 (The application)<div class="MsoNormal">
You can read the <a href="http://heymomitsmeagain.blogspot.com/2016/01/using-gods-word-to-correct-and.html">introduction</a> and <a href="http://heymomitsmeagain.blogspot.com/2016/01/using-gods-word-to-correct-and_22.html">part 2</a> for more encouragement before continuing on...<br>
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In the book of Matthew, Jesus gives us the same
instruction to “love the Lord your God with all your heart and with your soul
and with all your mind” (22:37). We do
that by reading God’s Word – his true, infallible Word – written to guide us,
love us, and save us. We come to know
God by reading His Word. That “time”
looks SO different for all of us – but filling your heart, soul, and mind with
the God-breathed words grows strength to love God with all of our might. So, we start with the Scriptures. Read them.
As often as you can. And seek to
KNOW God through them. </div>
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Deuteronomy 6 gives a charge to the parents, to us – “teach them diligently to your
children” (vs. 7) and even gives parameters of when and how! There you have it
folks. Easy peasy! But if you keep reading, you uncover that
it’s more than that, it’s a lifestyle (change) for us! When we sit in our houses, when we are
walking, when we lie down and when we rise.
So, that encompasses just about all parts of the day, right? But if we are filling our hearts, soul and
mind with the scriptures as we were earlier instructed, shouldn’t teaching our
children all parts of the day just naturally occur? </div>
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Perhaps, but for me, “naturally” just didn’t happen until I
began to pray for God’s help in guiding my children to knowing the scriptures
as well, which would in turn affect their behavior and grow their
character. So this is how we slowly
began to start changing the way we ran the ship at our house and allowed God,
and His Word, to guide our comings and our goings each day.</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->1<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;">1. 1. </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Be in God’s Word and make it evident.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">We wanted our children to see the Bible, know
what the Bible is, and know how important it is.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">And not only that, but to actually see us
READING it, imagine that?!</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Sitting on a
shelf (or closed on the night stand), it grows dust.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">But, with it opened on our counter and being
used it’s seen as our sword, every day.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">And, the Spirit brings conviction to our own hearts when it’s open and
we haven’t taken a peek into it after a while. </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Try it.</span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->2<span style="font-size: xx-small;">2. </span>We “wrote them on the doorposts” (Deut. 6:9). The Word of the Lord should be meditated on
day and night (Psalm 19:7), and one of the best ways to claim the promises of
God and to remember them was to have them written throughout our house. I painted a small wall in our kitchen with
chalkboard paint so we could write scripture verses that could be memorized by
all of us (yes, even my 2 year old at the time!). I printed out verses that gave me great hope
that I had found on etsy.com and framed them and hung them in places that I
would see them multiple times a day. We
have scripture in different rooms in the house and God’s promises written in
our walls. There are so many creative ways to post scripture through your home
so you can see it each day. I’ve even
heard of people who have built their home with Bible verses written on the
lumber they use. Literally – writing
God’s word on the doorposts so that we can begin to hide his word in our
hearts. </div>
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This is where life and faith get so creative! I LOVE my chalkboard wall and finding lovely fonts that inspire the presentation of God's words written on our walls each week. Here are a few ideas:</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->33.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]-->We began a family prayer time and using
scripture in our prayers. We stopped
using the “now I lay me down to sleep” rote prayer with our littles and began
developing a time of prayer before bed that included our girls so they would
learn, by example, how to praise God for his goodness, how to thank Jesus for
his death on the cross, and how to pray for those in need. We pray God’s Word with confidence and ask
for our own faith in His daily abundant provisions. They all take part in this time of corporate
prayer and are learning how to pray God’s word, too. As they have gotten older (now 5.5 and 4),
they have no fear in “praying to God” at all times (Ephesians 6:18).</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->44.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]-->We use scripture to rebuke AND praise our
children. <i>All scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for
reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God
may be complete, equipped for every good work </i>(2 Timothy 3:16). This can be one of the hardest, most difficult things to
do and to do with consistency. But when
it’s done, there is such reward. But
before we could start doing this, we had to maneuver through (and still do)
reading, writing, and praying God’s word.
By doing those things, the Lord has orchestrated a respect for His word
and teaching that we all value as a family.
So when we fall short in obedience and are able to use God’s word as our
ultimate source of correction, we straighten up and are speechless for
argument. We can turn in repentance
and even find teachable moments for gospel truths. When
our children are kind to one another or display love to others, we praise them
in the same manner and use God’s word to encourage them forward. We as parents continue to pray that God will
guide us through the trenches and over the mountains in this way over the
coming days and years ahead (because we all know the trenches will still be
there!). </div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->55. It isn’t always just enough to use the
scripture. We try to take the time to
address the behavior, speak the appropriate Truth, and correct it with an
active apology, and a time of prayer. If
necessary to give consequences, whatever they may be, it’s been helpful for our
children to have warning of the consequence and to see how the consequence
matches their poor choice in behavior. Whatever
the situation may be, when it’s covered by the Spirit and prayed over with
God’s word, we all seem to walk away having grown and matured toward obedience…<i>until we all reach unity in the faith and in
the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole
measure of the fullness of Christ</i> (Ephesians 4:13). Isn't that the end goal of each day, all the more as we see THE DAY approaching?</div>
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Just yesterday, M (my oldest, and always the most stubborn!) had difficulties listening to my instructions the first time...and even after the stern deliverance of them the third time, she looked me in the eye, and disobeyed anyway "because she wanted to help." In my busyness to prepare dinner and a cake for the evening, I got carried away in my frustrations. And then there was an explosion. But, after a few minutes of sadness, and me gathering my better wits, I proceeded to console her and approach her disobedience with God's word and the important responsibility we have to obey not only mommy but God too-and that's how we can show love the best. The weeping and temper quickly faded and we rejoiced that we shared love with one another. That time was so special with her, and so encouraging for this "living in the trench" momma. </div>
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God has given us as parents such a responsibility to train our children, and we can rejoice that we all journey together until His return. </div>
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I hope you are able to find a sketch piece of paper, a wall you can chalkboard paint, or even one of those thousands of different scripture boards that you see in Hobby Lobby to fill your home with God's word this week and in the days to come. </div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-4230011346623735852016-01-27T08:37:00.002-05:002016-01-28T19:46:07.395-05:00Memories of Mom - the journal<div class="MsoNormal">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh65VsE0G8FFD_HxP9emCMSMT-ctjj2EPr7B6ataYE4xOONjoLb5ddZdDIYwIdfY_rgFFVQGmYfRQJaQqsMrFTpfqZNYixJByFxlKC7TEQC8QL2-TdZchFkppO0ICxRhoczOKpxUswv_1g/s1600/100_0311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh65VsE0G8FFD_HxP9emCMSMT-ctjj2EPr7B6ataYE4xOONjoLb5ddZdDIYwIdfY_rgFFVQGmYfRQJaQqsMrFTpfqZNYixJByFxlKC7TEQC8QL2-TdZchFkppO0ICxRhoczOKpxUswv_1g/s320/100_0311.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas 2006</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">It's about time we put into words for safe keeping the story that gave us such strength in a season of life with such weakness. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">This is the story of the greatest woman I have ever known. With such strength, grace, love, and humility, she endured more in 22 months than I ever want to imagine for anyone. This is the journal that I kept of her and the goings and comings of her disease, but it doesn't begin until almost 9 months after her diagnosis of a Glioblastoma Multiforme. The first group of entries are taken from mom's personal journal that she had at the beginning of her sickness. But quickly, she was unable to write complete, coherent sentences, so we have little writing and thoughts from her. I will cherish these words from her, and this timeline of events, not because they make me dwell in the past when she was alive, but rather because they give us great HOPE - a hope of eternal LIFE. She may have stopped living here on earth, but her legacy will forever be present in our lives.</span><br />
<br />
FROM DEBI<br />
April 11, 2007<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Almost four weeks after being diagnosed with GBM I begin this journal. I am aloe this morning. Ronnie has gone to the dentist. Quiet time! I want to let everyone know that I have given this GBM to God and He is in control. What a relief for me. This thing is way too big for me to handle. My precious, beautiful family - without their support - tears and laughter I don't know how I would be right now. My wonderful husband - How did I get so blessed? My girls, both of them strong in their way. So much to share with them. Grace, my heart. God has answered every prayer. My prayer was to live long enough to see my children grown and happy. Thank you God for this blessing! I began radiation on Monday April 9, 2007. I would not wish this on anyone. How sad it is to see the rows of chairs filled with cancers that need radiation. This is not a good time for me yet I know it is good for me. Tuesday chemo arrived in a cool pack - 30 day supply, $6,500 they waived the $90 co-pay. Praise the Lord! The Zofran is going to keep me from getting sick. I did not get sick yesterday. Yeah! I do feel I'm walking on eggshells waiting for a reaction.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">April 12, 2007</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Treatment #3 went well. Walked right in and was taken straight back. My mask I have named Alathea which is Greek for "truth." My prayer as Alathea and I meet everyday at 3:20 p.m. that God will get rid of this cancer in my head. I know God is in control of the radiation beams going to my brain - and guiding their path straight to this tumor. I can feel it drying up. This cancer is not bigger than God. It has no hope against the power of God. I surprise myself at the blessing of peace God has given me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">April 15, 2007</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Tax day - it really sucked we had to pay. Thank God in His provisions. Can you say sucked in one sentence and in the next sentence refer to God? Five radiations and 4 chemo down and I feel good. I do posses super hero powers with my mask. These powers fight against brain tumors. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">April 16, 2007</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">HEADACHE!! 6 a.m. had horrible pain. When you have a GBM any headache is scary. Today I have 25 rads to go. I want Amanda to play Vivaldi's "Spring" on my last rad. She may be in Desin with the Ghents. Which is the first time Amanda said she knew she wanted to marry Jeremy. 2005. Boy! It took him long enough!! Treatment #6 all is well the "mask" is from God. All of this is from God. How can I not accept it? I am a part of His plan and will praise His name!! I do understand His will, not mine - how blessed am i? Shrimp Boat tonight yum yum. Amanda? At this point I have no great insight as to my role in this situation. I want my people to know that I am happy and have such peace. Please know that! The one thing I have always told my girls to remember is that I love them, forever and always. I imagine Ronnie will be stalked by all these single women. Get back! He's mine!!! How did I get so lucky? I still wanted him to get my gold teeth and make a necklace for his new girl. One thing I treasure is my family. Phyliss has been such an inspiration to me. She has been a friend and mother figure. Phyliss, I don't mean you're old, just short and squatty, all butt and no body. Taught me how to make biscuits, chocolate delight. no dagum wonder I'm so big. Ralph I thank you for being such a wonderful man. Ronnie learned alot about being a good dad from your example.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">April 17, 2007</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Renee, Clair and Melissa came by today. Good visit!!! Renee's chocolate pound cake yum yum. It was good to see them. Renee is 7 months pregnant and she doesn't look it. Melissa's little girl is beautiful of course she would be. Claire did not bring little Debi. Wish I could go to class.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">April 18, 2007</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Took Bactrim this am made me sick as a dog actually missed rads today. Scheduling last rad for May 21 which worked for all Amanda was able to play for my last treatment. What an emotional time!!! Bactrium, YUCK! Lost 2 days to the couch. My family is so wonderful. Amanda held the bucket for me. I did not want her to have to take care of me. I'm only 53 years old! She's wonderful. Poor Madeline combing my hair and it just coming out in clumps "Bald headed Woman" She's great!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">May 26, 2007</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Bald is beautiful! I do know Ronnie is. I haven't written in 6 weeks. Had my check-up MRI. The films are here, can't look. Saw the first ones. I do not want to see that almond shaped white tumor sitting on the right side of my brain. Waiting for Elshihabi to tell me it's gone. I plan on taking a Valium before I go to see him on Thursday. Very anxious!! We all are. At least Madeline will be here (haha Amanda). Feeling so tired the last couple of days. Somewhat concerned. Slept yesterday away. Big plans today. Cookout for Bill's Birthday. Amanda and Jeremy came. I'm so proud of both of them and thankful they have each other. Jeremy has made Amanda so happy. Which was my prayer for both of my girls. Jeff has made Madeline so happy. I'm proud of both of my sons-in-law.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">May 30, 2007</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Just talked to both girls. Madeline is coming home today. Tomorrow is D-day. I won't lie I'm so anxious. Ronnie actually left me this am for work. Jane Shillinglaw and Ann Newman just left. Jane brought chicken salad (very good lunch). Holly Whitley is coming for supper. How fun?? EGW just called and he's just great!!! They have been so good to me. He said I could work off the 90 days. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">June 15, 2007</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I can't believe I haven't written in 2 weeks. Got really scared last night with a brain tumor headache. #4. Ronnie tried to calm me but the reality of it all hit home. I will not be here much longer. I have had a good life and blessings too many to count. Ronnie, Madeline and Amanda have brought me such happiness. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">July 11, 2007</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Today is Wednesday and tomorrow is Ronnie's birthday. #58. I was there for #25!! I want #60 at least. Am I selfish?! Yes! This is just so hard I have to run out of philosophical (sp) things to saw. I want my family to know how they have comforted me through all of this. I'm so proud of them. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">July 17, 2007</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Surgery scheduled for August 3. Have to be at hospital @ 5:30 a.m. No time for coffee. Now I have 3 weeks to think about surgery. I liked it better when I only had 3 hours to think about it. I start chemo on Thursday. Finish on Monday and will go to see Grace and Mad. Could I possibly get enough hugs and kisses to last forever???</span><br />
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END MOM'S PERSONAL JOURNAL<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">FROM THE CARINGBRIDGE SITE</span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/08/08</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Greetings! Today is a new beginning of sharing mom's story with everyone. Unfortunately, you'll find that you've missed out on some of the greatest parts, because it's been 9 months since it all began, and we're just now starting this journal. Mom has been diagnosed with a brain tumor, had three surgeries (partial removal in March 07, insertion of a catheter in early August 07 for a clinical trial dosage, and removal for said catheter at the end of August 2007). We have managed to still celebrate with our family, rejoice in the Christmas season, and carry on with a smile. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJ0hUDb1D7lFTPSFskMz43lxzcN4W8dcH3bH_TJKSKCS5k6gwl2sq-I7lW5r7WcPGF-MGSFk3ys_Ql-L5VQE79vYlSV5ZkpmrWWxVQwskKUayJqRrjhx8x-W9PGukAWkfPwUlCR5yvpY/s1600/P1000030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJ0hUDb1D7lFTPSFskMz43lxzcN4W8dcH3bH_TJKSKCS5k6gwl2sq-I7lW5r7WcPGF-MGSFk3ys_Ql-L5VQE79vYlSV5ZkpmrWWxVQwskKUayJqRrjhx8x-W9PGukAWkfPwUlCR5yvpY/s320/P1000030.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celebrating Mom's 54th Birthday (Aug 2007)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqym2MUDJvKR3ojxz_yDU_XOqh0PJQWgfeVE2Dx_S4NTvdwtNEBCiVoaoih6q70c6VcQG_y8lFZAM43VX_AlRaIc1RvFIrRoMU5l9pwN82T1mDQjqRH83VaVJk3DZ9flm43BmJw26fQqM/s1600/DSC00846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqym2MUDJvKR3ojxz_yDU_XOqh0PJQWgfeVE2Dx_S4NTvdwtNEBCiVoaoih6q70c6VcQG_y8lFZAM43VX_AlRaIc1RvFIrRoMU5l9pwN82T1mDQjqRH83VaVJk3DZ9flm43BmJw26fQqM/s320/DSC00846.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scar from second surgery after inserting trial catheter </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5qfp4PbkRNvH8lfWySzhs0SaE_cS3TLiqn1J-iawqjcnS-7iEfIMPxxuIe4KmrslfDV_gPNJQzX43Le27yOkE7liNhuWZNGORToeXS6NpXxi17GvqowT9D8ivDn0shfm6IzT-T0Dk9TU/s1600/camera+081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5qfp4PbkRNvH8lfWySzhs0SaE_cS3TLiqn1J-iawqjcnS-7iEfIMPxxuIe4KmrslfDV_gPNJQzX43Le27yOkE7liNhuWZNGORToeXS6NpXxi17GvqowT9D8ivDn0shfm6IzT-T0Dk9TU/s320/camera+081.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom after her second surgery (Aug 2007)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19IFsBlDO4WVPsCAI58IafGXSXOk9yEipkjE_hVR2QHOgglmzuwfbp5m0uQp0YqW_lWh2Wx2eK1GU1xQKdmfmCblyGbFzy6s7QZe9m2cWhehArLiYI4UTXCJxc4i-GfX5aMWxhaVOPSU/s1600/DSC01011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19IFsBlDO4WVPsCAI58IafGXSXOk9yEipkjE_hVR2QHOgglmzuwfbp5m0uQp0YqW_lWh2Wx2eK1GU1xQKdmfmCblyGbFzy6s7QZe9m2cWhehArLiYI4UTXCJxc4i-GfX5aMWxhaVOPSU/s320/DSC01011.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas 2007</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Today is definitely a new journey. Mom and dad are on their way to the dentist.
Mom has to get a tooth pulled this morning. They had to do a lot of tests to
see what this would do to her body and blood system, but it looks like she
should be alright. Not that she needs anything else to slow her down, this will
help some of her pain - and it was just not a pretty thing. Pray that she'll
recover well from the procedure and that no infection would ensue. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Prayer of praise !</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The doctor called and we got Debi in to extract the tooth today (Tues). The </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">procedure went well and Debi came home</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">for an immediate nap. Bleeding stopped fairly easy and she was able to have </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">some soup broth and noodles this evening.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Later I fixed some whipped potatoes for her (my first; they were pretty </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">good!), and that went down very well. Debi still has some pain and swelling, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">but is taking some pretty strong pain meds., so she is very groggy and </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">slurred in speech.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Continue to pray for Debi's quick healing of the gum and that her blood </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">count remains high enough for her treatment <span class="yshortcuts">this</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span class="yshortcuts">Thursday morning</span> and that her body responds well
with the additional </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">medications for the tooth issue.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We sing praises to God every day.."Amazing Love, Amazing Grace"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/09/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I got a great big 'good morning' from mom at <st1:time hour="8" minute="30" w:st="on">8:30</st1:time> this morning. She was able to
rest well, but is still experiencing some pain and swelling from her tooth
procedure. She is a little bit more tired and slurred, so she won't be going to
physical therapy today. Hopefully, she'll keep her counts up so that she can
receive her treatment tomorrow.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/10/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Mom's treatment was the usual, nothing too
exciting, but she was able to take it today. We found out tons of good news
today - "significant improvement" from the MRI last week means the
tumor has shrunk almost 20% since the last MRI. Praise God! That's probably the
best news we've heard from those reports since we started this journey. The
other piece of good news was that starting tomorrow, mom will be weaning off of
the decadron (steroids) that she's been on since March. This will hopefully
decrease some swelling/bloating, and make her feel a little better. So we're
very positive and excited that the Lord continues to work in all of our lives.
I'm looking forward to hanging out with her some tomorrow. Thank you for your
prayers!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/11/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Debi's day for treatment started at <st1:time hour="8" minute="0" w:st="on">8:00 am</st1:time> and returned home by <st1:time hour="16" minute="30" w:st="on">4:30 pm</st1:time>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Her white blood count was so low, but just at the minimum she could receive</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">the chemotherapy. But she did have some protein in the urine. She received</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">the chemo first while waiting for further testing of urine, and was finally</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">cleared for the Avastin treatment. As long as the day was, it came also with</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">some great reports. As we reported last Friday, the images of the MRI showed</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">a significant interval improvement in the right frontal lobe, which they are</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">contributing to response to the treatment. PRAISE GOD! All the numbers</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">calculate to a 19.7% reduction in the tumor size. We just cried, thanking</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">God! Debi was skipping around the room, in her mind, of course. She will</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">also begin weaning off of the steroids during the next 3 weeks. Pray that</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">this process goes well and that Debi's blood </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">counts regenerate quickly. We want to make a trip to </span><st1:country-region style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" w:st="on">Georgia</st1:country-region><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> next week for </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Madeline's birthday, so she will need all the energy she can muster up.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/14/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wanted to let you all know that Dad had to take mom to the
hospital this morning. Mom had been super lethargic on Sunday, unable to attend
church, slept most of the day, and was slurring in her speech. Her strength
greatly diminished over the day, and by the evening, her heart rate and blood
pressure were continuing to rise. The evening was unfortunately restless, and
they were unable to sleep as dad kept watch over mom and chatted several times
with the nurses. Since mom wasn't doing any better, they decided to head on up
to CMC. They have been in the ER since 8 this morning, and she is still
undergoing tests before she is admitted into a room (the doc gives us assurance
that she'll stay a bit).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here's what we know:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- her oxygen levels have been very low, and she has to keep a mask on, instead
of just the tubes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- her white count is 'decent' - not average by any means, but ok.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- her platelet levels are still low</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- her blood pressure remains very high</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- her heart has some irregular beating</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- there is nothing in the lungs that shows fluid or buildup of any sort</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- mom has close to no strength at all - isn't able to keep herself up</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Please keep them in prayer this morning - mom is sleeping too much to be really
worried, but dad is exhausted for sure. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is what the surgeon told me right when these treatments began: 'you have
to get through the bad to get to the good' - he was right. Using these
medications seems to make mom feel worse than she has ever felt - but to result
in a 20% reduction....</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I hope to update later this afternoon </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Debi was finally into a room in the ICU by <st1:time hour="18" minute="30" w:st="on">6:30</st1:time> tonight. After some testing,
the docs found a clot right near the lungs so they have already begun some meds
to help thin out her blood. Best scenario: she'll be in ICU overnight, and
hopefully into a regular patient room tomorrow, then stay a few days. After
that, she'll return home and begin an oral treatment of this same med. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Please keep praying for positive test results, and the
comfort of mom (and dad) at this time. Dad will not be able to stay in her room
this evening, but will be camping out in a <span class="yshortcuts">lounge chair</span>
in the waiting room. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/15/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I am currently in the room with mom as dad is
taking a "breather" to get out a bit. It was apparently a quite
uneventful evening last night, and mom and dad both got a good amount of sleep
in the ICU. Mom was moved to a regular patient room late this morning. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">She's still having a lot of difficulty breathing,
and it's hard to get up or move to do anything. Her strength is practically
diminished to nothing, and her breaths are heavy and quick. I know she gets
really frustrated because this keeps her from eating, moving around, talking,
etc. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">They've talked a bit to the docs, and it
looks like the scans will tell the story. Hopeful hearts want to be home by
Thursday - but one day at a time.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Dad is working hard at keeping his energy up
and his weakness down - it's good that someone is around so he feels more
freedom to take a quick walk (his last one just lasted about 5 min):)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">It's just another long stay at the hospital,
not much fun in that. But we are learning more about the body and how God has
uniquely designed the inner most parts of us. It's like a road map inside of
us, and so difficult to understand. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/16/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom had a good night, and was definitely able to rest. I
visited for a good portion of last night, just hanging out and watching mom
rest. It's good to see her more comfortable in the hospital than she's been
before. She and dad are still learning to work together to accomplish some
things, because of mom's strength being so little, sitting up can be a major
act of movement.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Today they'll hear back from the doc and probably do some more tests/scanning.
Let's pray for great results that they would be able to see what's going on
with the clot, and that the docs could better regulate the blood thinning
medicine.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/17/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">It surely has been a long 2 days! Mom is
still receiving medications that aren't quite perfect yet, meaning she's in the
hospital longer, and her circumstances seem somewhat more discouraging as each
day passes. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">This stay at CMC has been noticeably
different for us caring for her- unfortunately, it's probably the worst time
for her- she seems so helpless. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The doctors say they won't do another scan of
her chest, because the blood work should tell whether or not the clot is
dissolving or not. There's talk of her being released tomorrow, but we're just
not sure what happens after that point. There are many options to consider for
the next step.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">There will be some new decisions to be made
in the upcoming days. Please pray for:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- Wisdom between dad (and mom) about where mom
should go/who should help/where to be treated <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- Energy and strength for both mom and dad:
mom isn't eating much, so her energy is practically non-existent, and her
strength is super minimal. I think dad has finally reached a point of
exhaustion, too, that is in desperate need of refreshment. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- The clot itself, that it would be dissolved
into the blood and that her levels and blood flow would be more normal. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- All of the nurses, doctors, staff, and
other patients and their families on this floor - there already have been
opportunities to share the gospel and it's encouraging to see more of that.
Praise the Lord!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We want to offer much praise and prayer for
you, our warriors helping us to be stronger at this point. I boast in this body
of believers who are committed to caring for the members and their families. It
has definitely been a lower point in this particular battle, and we appreciate
your encouragement, and praise the Lord for giving us daily grace to sustain
us. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/21/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We've had quite a weekend. With the weather being so iffy,
our trips and visits to the hospital were limited somewhat. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On Friday, mom had an MRI - the docs thought it wouldn't hurt just to check and
see if there was any activity near the tumor bed. I believe the results showed
some fluid around the area, but just something to be watched for a while.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">She had been very weak all week long, but did gain some strength on Friday and
had eaten some too. However, she continued to drop in strength. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My sister came up on Saturday and hasn't left the room since. Apparently, 3
isn't too much of a crowd. :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom also has a bladder infection. So, one thing after another is just slowing
her down even more.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Today is a new day, and the beginning of a new week - and we know this much
from the Word in I Peter 5:10- "After you have suffered a little while,
the God of all grace who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ will
himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you" - Let's pray this
week for that restoration and strengthening that we so desperately desire for
mom, dad, and the rest of our family.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Blessings to you all this day - </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hospital stay with pulmonary embolism</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I spoke with dad this morning. Mom had a CT
scan this morning at 9 that will show how the fluid on the brain is affecting
everything (tumor, clot, etc).</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Unfortunately, mom will be staying yet
another night at least. Her INR levels haven't reached a good level yet. They
keep "yo-yo"ing back and forth - those levels are how thick/thin the
blood is. The blood needs to be just right in order for her to be on a
maintenance dose of the medication. They are also going to be taking her off
of the IV fluids (she is getting some fluids and food in since the weekend) and
put her on another medication to help with the blood and bladder infection.
They have increased her decadron back up (they were weaning her off) and that
has given her some "pep." For more "pep" they will be doing
a blood transfusion this afternoon.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Continue to pray - it's been a super long
week,and little progress has been made. We appreciate your encouragement and
care. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/21/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Debi finally "moved home" today -
into her new home at Health South and into a private room! After a week+ in the
hospital, she was ready for a move, but still lacking a lot of strength and
skill to maneuver on her own. We were so thankful that her levels remained
stable today so that she could finally leave. She and dad were getting situated
by <st1:time hour="18" minute="0" w:st="on">6 p.m.</st1:time> this evening, and
were anxious to meet the staff and hear the expectations, etc.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">This will be a very difficult and trying 3
weeks in rehabilitation, so pray for:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">-the strength for mom during her therapy
sessions<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">-the consistency of the levels of mom's blood
(effective use of blood thinner medication)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">-the staff working with mom and dad<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">-the energy and ability for dad to "let
go" a bit and let mom gain more strength on her own<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">-the mind of them both - being couped up has
made them both stir crazy!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">-other "household issues" that are
still in need of being done (bills, cleaning, etc etc)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/24/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was able to visit mom for about 30 minutes this morning at
the rehab hospital. I unfortunately was there right after an hour of therapy,
so she was super exhausted. They seem to know what they're doing, and expect
mom to be there 2-3 weeks.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Although her being in <st1:city w:st="on">Rock Hill</st1:city>
is easier to get to, the schedule she is on doesn't make it always easy to
visit. Her therapy schedule is about 3 hours each day, and visitation is
limited.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Continue to pray for:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-the new doctor that will be seeing mom while she's there</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-dad's rest on the air mattress in the room</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-dad to be able to let mom do things more on her own</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-the medicines to continue working their best </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/26/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Greetings! I wanted to update, even though I am not in town
this weekend. My sister was able to visit with mom and dad this weekend, and
they have been keeping me posted, so as to update you even better. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom has had a good adjustment to the rehab center very well so far. She is in
treatment twice a day for almost 2 hours each session, and she is able (most
days) to eat lunch and dinner in the cafeteria. The schedule has definitely
been the most difficult adjustment for us all.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We very much appreciate everyone's continued prayers for mom's care in this
facility and the regaining of her strength so she can come back home soon. We
are grateful that you all are able to visit, but unfortunately, this schedule
is rather trying on mom. We wanted to inform you of the schedule, so that you
would be aware of when mom would be up for a visit. The visitation is limited
(8-8) each day. Mom has a morning session from <st1:time hour="9" minute="0" w:st="on">9-11a.m.</st1:time>, followed by lunch, then an afternoon session
from 2-4ish, followed by dinner at <st1:time hour="17" minute="0" w:st="on">5
p.m.</st1:time> In the midst of those times, she tries to rest and recover for
the next 'event'. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you would like to visit, if you wouldn't mind, please call ahead of time so
that we can assure that mom is awake and 'unbusy'. Your visit might be limited
in time, as mom gets sleepy rather often. This will allow mom to receive the
maximum amount of rest, recover, and soon return home. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We appreciate your thoughts and looking out for us all. We can't wait until mom
is home, so that your visits can last forever!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Blessings to you all -</span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1.29.08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We've begun a new week, and mom has been doing even better.
Although her therapy sessions are excruciatingly exhausting, she seems to
improve day by day. Yesterday, she was able to walk about 100 feet. I think the
last time I saw her walk was almost 3 weeks ago!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The doctor and nurses at the rehab hospital seem to want mom out by Wednesday,
but she really needs to be doing a bit more on her own before she leaves. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Please pray for:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-the doctors and nurses making decisions for mom (that they would be the best
for her and not just any patient)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-rest and recovery after therapy each afternoon and evening</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-encouragement for dad as he encourages mom</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-comfort from the pain mom is finally starting to experience</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-the swelling to go down (her swelling decreased immensely while in the
hospital, but has now returned)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I look forward to updating you with more improvement on mom's behalf. Thank you
for your prayers!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/31/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom is still at Health South as of today (was scheduled to
leave yesterday - Wednesday). She is still recovering very much and learning
how to use her body to move herself. She was able to walk about 100 feet on
Monday and Tuesday, but gets extremely exhausted in short periods. She will
plan to stay through Monday now.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Please join with me in praying for:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-more strength to come back so mom could do more</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-more complete rest (has been interrupted by nurses and coughing a lot lately)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-swelling on mom's legs and hands. This had stopped while in the hospital on
the blood thinner medication through IV. Unfortunately, her blood levels have
dropped again, and her swelling has returned. This could also be a sign of
buildup around the clot too - so we don't need anything to make that clot bigger
and dislodge into the lungs</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-the doctor (only one) at Health South for something like 25 patients- he
hasn't seemed to address all of the issues that concern mom and dad, so that
can be frustrating at times</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-the changes that will need to be made around the house to make it 'wheelchair
friendly' for mom when she returns home (ramp to enter the house, widening of
spaces, convenient showering situation, shorter bed, etc)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-the therapists at the rehab center - some of them have already been able to
witness the Lord in the midst of mom and dad, and we pray they continue to see
Christ in their lives</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- the return to the Chemo treatments - the nurse wants to see mom start back
with her treatments next Thursday - this all depends on mom's strength and
health at that point - pray that we would know when and how to restart that
process</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Again, we appreciate your thoughts and prayers. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Blessings this day,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/02/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Jeremy and I were able to spend a good bit of
time with Mom yesterday (Friday). We got to eat lunch together, took a short
nap, and got ready for therapy at 2. Mom did a great job at therapy. She walked
a total of 300 feet - that's a football field! and was able to do some other
exercises while keeping her oxygen level good.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The evening was fairly uneventful, which is
always nice. Today, mom worked with the occupational therapist on many
coordination skills and has improved greatly over the past week - she just
remains super tired.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">She will have one more therapy session this
afternoon, and her last (hopefully) tomorrow afternoon. The plan is still for
her to leave on Monday morning. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Jeremy and my father-in-law have been
diligently working this afternoon and have built a beautiful and usable ramp
for mom when she comes home. We've been grocery shopping, and I will be
cleaning the house for mom's arrival on Monday...<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/04/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">'My chains are gone, I've been set free, my God my Savior,
has ransomed me' - words from Chris Tomlin's arrangement of Amazing Grace,
mom's favorite hymn. That's what she was singing about 30 minutes as we were
'walking' out of Health South Rehab hospital.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom was finally released and sent home after a 3 week span in the hospital and
rehab facilities. We are confidant that her health is at a stable condition and
she will be able to continue recovering at home.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">She will be receiving home health care and therapy often and that will
hopefully put her back in 100% gear.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now that mom is home, she will be more up to visitors, I'm sure. Although we
aren't sure of her schedule and therapy, etc, it will probably still be best to
give a call ahead of time (<a dir="ltr" href="tel:366-9010" x-apple-data-detectors-result="9" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors="true">366-9010</a>). That way you won't waste a trip out there
to find they've gone to the doctor, or mom is sound asleep. Soon we can let you
know of the best times to visit.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Some things to pray for at this exciting time:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- good transition to home - they've been away for 3 weeks, and are returning
with more limitations on mobility, care, and diet - her safety around the house
is big now that she is limited to her movement; plus, adjustments in the house
are having to be made</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- positive attitudes to continue strong with therapy - this will probably add
an extra dose of sanity as well:)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- medications to be working well together - i think there is a total of 7 or so
that mom will continue to take everyday</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- wisdom for all of the many doctors that continue to follow mom's progress,
especially the oncologist and the team of nurses that will resume the chemo
treatments soon.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We give praise that the promise of Emmanuel never is failing and continues to
be our song. We appreciate your prayers and deep concerns during this rough
season.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Blessings,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/05/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom has made it through 2 nights at home! She's even been
sleeping in their own bed. There are a lot of changes around the house to be
made to make it easier to move around, etc...but she and dad are both loving
being in their own house.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's been a bit busy with health visitors bringing equipment, scheduling
appointments, therapy and other tests...but she seems to be resting quite well.
Now that we're calming things down a bit, we can all get some rest - </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/08/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We just returned home from a trip to <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Charlotte</st1:place></st1:city> this afternoon
to meet with the oncologist. Although the previous treatments seemed to be
working well, they pose quite a risk for mom and her health now, with the clot
near her lungs. For this reason, they have chosen a new path - another chemo
treatment that is more "standard". This "carboplatin"
treatment will be twice a month and there are some different things that will
need to be watched. Definitely her blood levels will be taken each time before
the treatment, but the other risk is the kidney function. The doctors and
nurses are confidant this is a good path for mom, especially right now.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Praise God! that mom was able to make it
through the entire day without a nap (although she is about to take one now:)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- pray for good test results so that the
treatment can begin asap - it's already been scheduled for Wednesday<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- pray for good results from the treatment,
and a positive experience with all of the effects<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- continue to pray for sickness not to enter
the <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Jackson</st1:place></st1:city>
home - if dad gets anything, he won't be able to care for mom as well, because
her immune system will be more suppressed<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- continued strength for mom - little by
little she is walking more and more<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Thanks for all that you do for our family,
the church congregation, and this community!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
Blessings to you all this weekend. </span></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/09/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Well, it has been a day. From such excitement and
anticipation as we look forward to the beginning of mom's new treatment, we
were greeted with a new obstacle today. Mom just wasn't feeling
"right", and since my sister was in town, we were able to check mom's
blood sugar consistently throughout the morning (Madeline is Type I diabetic).
Her numbers were extremely high all morning ("average" levels are
somewhere around 80-120, mom's was 250+), even after not eating much of
anything, so they met with a family doc at 3. Unfortunately, she was diagnosed
with diabetes (probably type 2-which is controllable by diet and meds). I'm not
sure exactly all of the details and what happens from here, but there is
certainly enough to keep us praying until we find out. Please pray specifically
with me for:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- decisions on new treatment for the brain tumor (the
"new" chemo may not work if mom has the blood clot AND diabetes)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- discernment and wisdom for dad and/or a dietitian as
he/they will be responsible for planning meals that will work and benefit mom
with her blood thinning medication, as well as diabetes limitations</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- encouragement for mom and dad as it is somewhat frustrating
- they just went through the ringer over the past month, and were encouraged
that mom's adjustment was so smooth. Obviously, they would have liked to
avoided any diagnosis such as this so soon</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- peace and rest for the entire family...we're all feeling
extremely run down</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- the family to testify to Psalm 16: "Lord you have
assigned me my portion and my cup: you have made my lot secure. The boundary
lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful
inheritance"...we are fully confidant that the Lord will not give any of
us more than we can handle, but there are many times when our human flesh wants
to doubt that promise that He has already given....please pray that we would be
living in faith every day in these experiences</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I will keep you updated, as you know, as we learn more.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/11/08</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's Monday - a start to a brand new week!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Dad had to figure out how to test mom's sugar all day yesterday. We borrowed a
tester from my grandmother and didn't have all of the information on it, so it
was quite a chore to figure it all out.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So far, those levels have remained 'decent' but nothing normal by far. She'll
be seeing the regular general practitioner this afternoon, and he'll hopefully have some
more detailed information from test results, etc. We're hoping he also has a
great recommendation for a dietitian to help them plan their meals to work for
mom on her meds, and to be enough nutrients for dad as well.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Blessings in this new week-</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/28/08</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's Thursday, and has been almost 3 weeks since I last
posted anything. Well, no news is good news, right? Not always the case. There
hasn't been miles of progression, although mom continues to work with her
physical therapist twice a week, and dad has now become the new occupational
therapist. Putting together puzzles, reading books, playing with puddy - those
are the sorts of things he's been helping mom with.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Unfortunately, the church was swamped with three deaths in the congregation,
and our pastor was out with a blood clot. So I did take on a lot of the
responsibility, and wore myself out. So I spent all of last week in the bed
with a virus and complete sleep deprivation. I am 'in the swing' of things now,
just not 100%. And in order to keep ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING from mom, I haven't
visited in over 2 weeks. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hopefully, we'll be back to visiting, and good health next week.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom will have another chemo treatment in 2 weeks, so continue to pray for
strength and any other opportunities to encourage her health along.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We appreciate your continued prayers in a dry season of reporting.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3/02/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Hello to anticipating eyes!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I greatly apologize for the length in time
that has past since the last update on mom. Unfortunately, 2 weeks ago, I was
attacked by some nasty virus (not the flu) that kept me out of the "land
of the living" for quite some time, and was unable to visit or see
mom/dad. However, I am on the mend and almost 100% recovered, so will hopefully
get back in the swing of things this week.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">For those of you that have asked and often
wondered "how is Debi doing?"...just understand that right now,
"no news is good - or at least decent - news". Mom has been
progressing and taking baby steps each day to getting more mobile. She
continues to work twice a week with in-home physical therapy, and has since
given up her occupational therapy time, for dad is learning all there is to
know in that field now (he should have a degree in everything now! - talk about
renaissance man!). From what I hear when I do get to speak with mom, she sounds
great...<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">although she's making progress, each day
still holds its share of difficulties. She is still learning to walk around
more, keep focused, and do small tasks that many of us take for granted. She's
also missing her children, as we haven't been able to visit lately because of
illness. She's always positive when I speak with her....and dad continues to
care for her basically on a 24 hour basis. She can be alone, but not for super
extended periods of time. And getting out to go places is a little bit more
complicated, and definitely wears her out - probably why you haven't seen her
at church lately.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">They greatly appreciate all of your meals,
cards, cares, and prayers for them. I told them I'd be a millionaire if I had a
penny for every time someone asked about her - and that's not a burden, it's
definitely a way of showing how much you not only love mom and dad, but how you
care for me and my sister.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Thank you for your "missing" of the
updates. I pray that your families have remained well, and hopefully will
continue to be well during a season of such sickness and weather change.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Please pray for:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- Mom's second treatment of this particular
chemotherapy (<span class="yshortcuts">Wednesday, Mar 6</span>) to go well and
for the reactions and responses to be as expected<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- the blood clot near mom's lungs (is still
there!) and the medications she has to take in order for her to keep her blood
and sugar levels healthy<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- possibilities of turning to a stronger
treatment in the future<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- an extra dose of health to dad so that he
doesn't get sick (if he's sick...he can't serve as mom's sole caretaker in fear
of getting her sick with anything)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- all of the families that have been
introduced to deadly diseases such as brain cancer in the past year - we've all
had a rough year, but we continue to seek God's will and certainly praise him
for his blessings!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Praise for:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">-the past year - just for an insight, mom's
"year anniversary" is coming up. We found out she had the
glioblastoma cancer on March 18, 2007 - it's an absolute party of rejoicing
that we're able to still update a year later that her testimony remains strong!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A prayer for the new week ahead of us...</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3/16/08</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Greetings! I appreciate your patience with me, and sometimes
my lack of updating to tell you what is going on with mom....</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Can you believe that our specific requests began exactly a
year ago?! These next few days that approach us will definitely be difficult
ones as we look back at what was going on this time last year. Tuesday marks a
particularly important day - the day of mom's first surgery and her actual
diagnosis of her cancerous tumor. But, as we remember back, we pray that we
won't dwell on those days, but look forward to the greatness that is ahead of
us and the amazing possibilities,treatments, and healings that are there. In
the same way, during this Holy Week our hearts are hardened from the events
that took place so long ago as Jesus was crucified...but we are joyful at his Resurrection
and anticipate his return to his people again.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We are definitely GRATEFUL in many ways, for the Lord has
NEVER left our presence. From the first day in the hospital all the way through
our tomorrow, he has definitely been our "Ebenezer" - our rock. The
Lord has kept his promise and continues to draw us closer to him as a Father
and our Provider. Our faith and strength as a family has been encouraged and
nurtured, and our sadness and worries have been tended to - all because of our
church families and the Lord's guidance. We never thought we would celebrate
such an ending to a year, but we do have joy in our hearts, for we are able to
celebrate mom!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Many of you have asked constantly how mom is doing and
feeling, and unfortunately, the story never really changes. She continues to
get weaker as the days go on, and her health isn't in tip-top condition. She
has now been off of the steroids for a week, and that seems to do good and bad
things - her fluid retention and swelling is getting better, but her appetite,
general "feel good" attitude, and blood counts remain very low. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Two weeks ago, she went to receive her 2nd round of chemo
treatment, but was unable to do to low blood counts. So instead of chemo, they
gave her 2 shots to increase the blood counts.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Although her counts remained low this past week, she DID
receive treatment on Wed (Mar 12) and returned back to the doctor to receive
more "booster" shots. Some of the discomforts of this season include:
nausea, extra sleepiness and restlessness, lack of appetite, etc etc. Many of
the same, just intensified now.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For those that still wonder "What can I do to
help?" ...</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- continue to pray for the specifics - not just "we
pray for Debi to get well" to include:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- strength for each day to do particular tasks that we take
for granted</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- for mom to drink more water and liquids to prevent
dehydration</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- for mom to be able to eat or drink something to give her
enough protein for strength each day</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- for mom's nausea to be more contained if not removed</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- for mom to be able to increase her mobility and endurance
with the help of the physical therapist to get her out of a wheelchair</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- for the need for oxygen tubes to decrease or end</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- for mom's treatment to continue to shrink the tumor bed</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- for dad's health and patience as he cares for mom 24 hours
a day</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- for mom's surgeon who's wife just had a baby</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Other ways to help...</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- send a card or an email to her ... she doesn't stay on the
phone too long, but that way you could send your thoughts to her.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- if you would like to visit - PLEASE call ahead of time. I
can't even keep the appointments at the doctor, Charlotte, therapy folks
straight because it seems like everyday has something...and if she isn't doing
one of those, she might be sleeping. So that you can actually visit with her,
just make sure to talk with Ronnie first and check on the time.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Again, thank you for your concerns and thoughts. You all
continue to remind me how much you appreciate these updates, and I hope that
you realize what strength your prayers have given our family throughout the
past year.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3/17/08</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom tried to get up and get
ready for her physical therapy session at the </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">house today, but her nausea "overtook her". She has been so sick
feeling, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">that we were beginning to worry that she was suffering from dehydration. So </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">dad, being such a wise man, called the docs, and they headed up to </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><st1:city w:st="on">Charlotte</st1:city>. Upon
arrival, there was IV fluids, an anti-nausea shot, and a </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"booster shot" waiting for mom. After about 4 hours in the infusion
lab, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">they moved her over to the hospital to the 4th floor to begin the whole </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">process of receiving 2 units of blood. As of <st1:time hour="18" minute="30" w:st="on">6:30</st1:time>, they had only gotten a </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">sample of her blood and sent it to the lab to be tested and cross tested for </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">type.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">These infusions take quite a bit of time (and patience), so they will stay </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">up there until they are complete. The docs are hoping that it all will perk </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">mom up and she will be able to come back home immediately, and not be </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">admitted over night. When I spoke with dad last, he sounded very tired, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">told me that mom wasn't feeling any better, but was bound and determined to </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">come home tonight.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, let us all pray for:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- quick transfusions</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- mom to "perk up" from the extra blood and meds to curb the nausea</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- dad to get some rest while all of that is going on</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- safety as I travel up there, and everybody comes home (soon!)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3/18/08</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom and dad finally made the trip home last night around 3
a.m. Everything went fine with the transfusions, and they were able to sleep a
couple of hours before the daylight waking them.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I spoke with dad about 8:30 this morning, and he says mom is still 'swimmy' and
not so much 'perky' as they would expect, but he was hoping to get something in
her body for nutrients before they went back to sleep.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If at all possible, please limit your phone calls today, for they might be
sleeping all day to refresh themselves from the past 24 hours.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Continue to pray for them both as they rest today, and that the blood would do
wonders for mom today.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pray for the rest of the family, as last night was restless for us all - I have
especially been dealing with difficulties in sleeping, and with so much going
on, last night was a very sleepless night.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">By the way - today marks one year - of sadness, joy, peace,
worry, anxiety, laughter, having family and friends being more support than
ever imaginable, being led and given discernment - of knowing Christ more
through something as devastating as a brain tumor.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What a year! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3/25/08</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What a beautiful Easter! Our family was so excited because
we were able to celebrate this joyous season with everyone - including mom!
Although Mom was unable to make it to church on Sunday morning, we all came to
her that afternoon and fixed a feast. She was able to stay awake for almost 3 hours
with everyone over! We had such a blast just enjoying one another. Even though
she was exhausted and took a long and hard 3 hour nap afterwards, she was able
to enjoy herself too.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tonight she is scheduled for an MRI. Hopefully the results will be back
tomorrow for when they meet with the oncology nurse. Let's pray that those
results will help in guiding us all to the next step of treatment/therapy.
Continue to pray for mom's mobility too, as it's still very difficult for her
to do much without complete exhaustion. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We'll update after the results have come back. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3/28/08</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Debi's Oncology Research Nurse called today with good news
from the MRI, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">which was performed <span class="yshortcuts">Tuesday night</span>. There has been
NO change in the tumor </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">since the last MRI. This has eased any concerns of tumor growth. Debi's </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">weakness and inability to use her left side was mostly due to her condition </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">at the time, which was very poor, then. With some fluids, two units of </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">blood, new antibiotics, increased Potassium intake and some TLC, Debi has </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">fought back and gotten much stronger, now. She is still having problems </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">making her left arm and leg do what she is telling them. Debi has also </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">regained a pretty good appetite.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZZcnSFfdoT4WohsL6YZ8cs4WAisZfu9-kKEHZGjkJm9tuDYHtg1iAaC4hqyaS614qlFd4ZYEe9QXBA441MWniwoiZirFSO_9uIjv8a5Gw0_BDtEKOurMjJAjTfxuTsAWnKQ0vGH8lCU8/s1600/DSC01142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZZcnSFfdoT4WohsL6YZ8cs4WAisZfu9-kKEHZGjkJm9tuDYHtg1iAaC4hqyaS614qlFd4ZYEe9QXBA441MWniwoiZirFSO_9uIjv8a5Gw0_BDtEKOurMjJAjTfxuTsAWnKQ0vGH8lCU8/s320/DSC01142.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easter 2008</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We thank God for your faithfulness to prayer and for His mercies. God </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">continues to send His angels to encourage and support Debi with her battle </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and gives her the will to endure all that is going on with her body.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Debi's next chemo treatment is scheduled for </span><span class="yshortcuts" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">next
Wednesday 4/2</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">, and she'll</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">have to get another booster shot of </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Nulasta </span><span class="yshortcuts" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">on Thursday</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4/02/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Today is Wednesday - meaning chemo treatment day.
Unfortunately, mom wasn't able to receive the treatment today, though. Her
blood counts remain VERY low, and administering treatment with such levels is
just too dangerous. she did, however, receive 2 shots of the neulasta (the
white blood cell count inhibitor) while she was up there.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">soo.....what's next??</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom and dad met with the oncologist to discuss a new type of therapy (this is
the 4th try since standard treatment last spring). This new treatment with a
drug called 'Thalomid' is used for several medical issues - some severe, others
not so severe. The use of this drug has a similar use as the Avastin (cutting
off the growth of blood vessels - ultimately, and hopefully killing the tumor
completely). This is a pill that she will take so many days out of the week.
There are many risks involved with handling and care of this drug, so the
family will have to be cautious in the administering of it with mom. We have no
clue as far as side effects to what will happen. We pray that mom's body will
be accepting of this medication, and will allow it to do its job,without
harming other systems and bodily functions.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Today, I want to offer a prayer for those folks that work diligently on
researching the effects and causes of these medications, and that they would
continue learning more, getting closer and closer to a cure or functional treatment.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Thank you for your prayers. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4/07/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am so excited to announce the 1st Annual Jackson Classic -
a golf tournament to benefit mom and the Brain Tumor Fund for the <st1:place w:st="on">Carolinas</st1:place>! The tournament will be on Thursday, June 5 at
Waterford Golf course in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Rock Hill</st1:city>,
<st1:state w:st="on">SC</st1:state></st1:place> (out near the Galleria) and
will be open to as many people as possible! The game starts at <st1:time hour="9" minute="30" w:st="on">9:30 a.m.</st1:time>, then lunch, then finish
the last 9 holes following lunch. Cost is $75/player or $275/team of four - PLE<st1:stockticker w:st="on">ASE</st1:stockticker> let me know if you would like to be a part of
this day by playing - OR if there's some other way you'd like to help out (help
with registration, drink carts, preparing goodie bags, set up or clean up at
the course, etc). OR, you can also make a donation to Jackson Classic to help
cover the basic costs for the tournament. We want the majority of the funds to
help Debi, and another portion to support the BTFC, but there will be some
expenses to cover, so any donations will be greatly appreciated!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Just email me, <st1:personname w:st="on">amandaghent@yahoo.com</st1:personname>
if you are interested in supporting in ANY way! Pray for June 5 - that it will
a great time for fellowship and joy - </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4/09/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I just talked with Dad this
morning. Mom is feeling much the same as of late - decent, but not turning
cartwheels. Her physical therapist is coming later this morning. Mom typically
does well for the first half of their time together, but it absolutely
exhausted and has to 'rest' the rest of the day. Currently, they're waiting for
more information on the new treatment, so that hasn't begun yet.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We praise God for folks who are reaching out to serve mom and dad, as well as
Jeremy and me. We have so many friends and family that are offering so many
things outside of prayer; comfort, home cooked meals, lawn services, etc
....from deep within, we thank you all!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4/17/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Jeremy and I spent some time at mom and dad's yesterday the
good ol' fashioned way - with a bucket of KFC original chicken, 2 sides and 4
biscuits...Mom was able to eat some, and then rested the most of the time we
were there. Jeremy took dad outside and they hit golf balls in the yard in
honor of the masters. Mom is resting quite a bit these days, and is very tired
after getting from here to there to do whatever. She had physical therapy this
morning, and as I understand, that's going well, but not well enough to get her
back to walking.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, we continue to live another day, the start of another week - keep praying!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4/17/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Today we get some uplifting news! Mom went to <st1:city w:st="on">Charlotte</st1:city> to get blood
work done and get everything checked out to get prepared for the new treatment.
Thankfully, all of her labs came back good and was more 'above normal' than it
has been in the past. She also is walking some since her physical therapy -
like 50 feet a couple of times a day. Granted, she's slower, but hey - each
step is closer!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We aren't quite sure when the new treatment will begin, since it has to be
cleared by insurance, etc...but be praying for that specific treatment and the
effects it will have on mom (as with every treatment, there will be negative
effects, as well as positive ones).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was hoping to get her to the Women's Retreat this weekend, but not so sure
that will be so feasible. Let's pray that mom would be able to experience a
part of that somehow - whether it's through your personal testimonies, cards to
share about the time together, or even a visit and show some pictures.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4/24/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We have been humbled by God these past few days! Mom has
been LITTLE BY LITTLE moving 'forward' and feeling much better. We have been
able to witness the affects of elevated - but good- blood counts. Mom has been
able to do more and more with her therapy this week, and is bound and
determined to get back to walking more than she was able to. She now can walk
about 50 steps before resting - which is way better than the 3-5 steps she was
walking at a time. She still is resting a good bit, but when she's awake, she's
been very alert. A couple of things to pray and give thanks for:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- the new treatment (Thalomid) was approved by the insurance company yesterday
and she will begin taking it Friday (I think). I'm not quite sure of the
process of that treatment, but I do know that this med is in pill form. It's
also very dangerous for women - in the fact that it has severe, even deadly
birth defects. For this reason, mom and dad will really be the only ones to
handle that medication. Although the med is harmful, once mom takes it, it will
not affect anyone (so you can still visit worry free!:)) From what we've been
told, the side effects are a little less severe - only that it causes much
fatigue, which we're all somewhat used to with momma.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- the in-home rehab that mom has had since January will end after Monday. She
then will have to be admitted to out patient rehab 2-3 times a week. This is
really great because it will make them get out occasionally, but in case of bad
weather (really hot, or rainy) it might make those transitions a little more
difficult</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- pray for renewed encouragement. the results from the lab work last week were
definitely an encouragement, which has been so good during such a season of
slow and minimal progress/improvement</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- dad has been able to do some of that 'honey-do' list, and has been occupied
while mom rests. he loves to get his hands on things and likes to stay busy, so
that's been good and healthy for him</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- pray for the patients that have recently been seen at CMC for surgeries
similar to mom's. pray for their families, and opportunities, if any, for us to
be able to share the Gospel with them</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- plans for the golf tournament to raise money for mom and the Brain Tumor Fund
for the <st1:place w:st="on">Carolinas</st1:place> are beginning to come
together. I have brochures for those of you that are interested in
participating or helping out in any other way - just contact me or ask Dad</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4/28/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom had a really nice weekend. Jeremy and I were able to
spend more time with them this weekend than we have in a while. On Friday, dad
actually had a bit of work to do, so Jeremy and I went to visit with mom.
Jeremy cut the grass for dad before the rains came, and I kept company for
momma. We were able to enjoy our time together and the beautiful weather!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On Sunday, mom wanted us to go to the Front Porch, a home-cooking restaurant in <st1:city w:st="on">Chester</st1:city>, so we drove down
with them and enjoyed a wonderful meal. Mom actually had a good bit of energy
and was excited to get out. She got many compliments of how good she looked -
and she did look good! It seems that the positive reports from recent tests
have mentally given her an extra boost of feeling better - which is great!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">She hopefully will begin the new treatment/meds tomorrow (Tuesday). They have
to be shipped to the house, so pray they arrive today so she can begin that
tomorrow. She'll also be in need of some outpatient rehab, so pray that those
decisions and plans will be made soon.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Her next MRI is scheduled for May 20....</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">although the rains came hard today, there's been a bit more sunshine around!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5/07/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom keeps saying 'well, I FEEEEEEL good!' so praise the
Lord! She and dad have been busy bees and are trying to get out of the house
once a day for something - baseball games, dinners with family, church
homecomings, anything! I've been encouraging them to take a morning stroll - or
push - up the neighborhood to enjoy the beautiful sunshine, but I don't think
they've done that quite yet.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom began her treatment last Thursday night, and has seemed to take it fairly
well. They will speak with the doctors soon about raising the dosage, now that
we know her body can handle the medicine.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">She (hopefully) will be getting back into outpatient rehab therapy soon, so
continue praying for the opportunities for that to happen on a weekly basis. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom would love visitors, and I know dad would appreciate them as well. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So grateful to be writing such a positive update this week - </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">take care! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">P.S. - Golf tournament plans are coming along, but we still need your entries
and registrations! If you'd like to help and haven't told me already, shoot me
an email asap!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXNxNcCf3U5UsQMgWqYVIcMWn8oyWO6XDTE0PfIpFWvffzT_3ta8qHAqabXWV-8ZSLFNXYhZtvENKpwDPOtCOkMLvDWEGGPjkCP5d1XJ-BXkHejaqos52hblqx8gGCegxlaxupz73Qipo/s1600/classic+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXNxNcCf3U5UsQMgWqYVIcMWn8oyWO6XDTE0PfIpFWvffzT_3ta8qHAqabXWV-8ZSLFNXYhZtvENKpwDPOtCOkMLvDWEGGPjkCP5d1XJ-BXkHejaqos52hblqx8gGCegxlaxupz73Qipo/s320/classic+poster.jpg" width="206" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5/17/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">'This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be
glad in it.' The past few weeks have been very encouraging. Mom is beginning to
'feel much better' and is more alert, lively, and determined. She's able to
stay awake for a while longer now, and is determined to get out once a day.
Today is a big day...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">CN2 is doing a story about mom, to air conveniently right before the golf
tournament. We're thinking it will be on the night news next Monday. So, we're
getting ready for that. Not to mention, exactly 3 weeks until the big day!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Also, you might not recognize mom the next time you see her....she got
something, and boy is it stylish! Keep calling her, and find out for yourself
how well she is doing. Continue to pray for the effectiveness of the
medications too!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5/19/08</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">we had a great time visiting with my good friend and celebrating at her wedding over the weekend. It was great that mom was able to make the trip all the way to Anderson.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgenQmpIuNmjjXTCYNLZN6avN4QodEHPtXEsEgVO2Pi-HLgTNcqlC8wFm23S15miNbDq9ZDhPz4fH600V3UbI9uBCFCFJW-qS2OAXZyXrVZ2Thz1n9QOiph3s6zUSbGtBkD3QjGPLbWLc/s1600/Copy+of+DSC01311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgenQmpIuNmjjXTCYNLZN6avN4QodEHPtXEsEgVO2Pi-HLgTNcqlC8wFm23S15miNbDq9ZDhPz4fH600V3UbI9uBCFCFJW-qS2OAXZyXrVZ2Thz1n9QOiph3s6zUSbGtBkD3QjGPLbWLc/s320/Copy+of+DSC01311.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Kimberly's wedding in May 2008</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Be <st1:personname w:st="on">praying for mom</st1:personname>
(and dad) as they travel to <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Charlotte</st1:place></st1:city>
in the morning to do an MRI - the first one since January-ish. Of course, mom
can't stand the actual test and noises, so pray for calmness during the testing
and safety in their travels.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">So, maybe I have confused some of you....<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">mom actually began her new "chemo
treatment" last night (Sunday night) on an empty stomach, which a wise
move - she woke Monday morning real icky, and unfortunately didn't have the
greatest of mornings.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">This chemo is taken in a mega-dose once every
6 weeks. It is paired with the other medication (thalomid - it's a drug that
stops blood vessel growth) in hopes to really zap away the tumor.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Mom is very thankful that she only has to
take this chemo 1 time every 6 weeks, but she already doesn't look forward to
the next dosage.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">On another note, many of you may have seen us
on CN2 last Thursday during the news. I wish I would have been around a
computer to write to you, but was unable to tell you soon enough. i will,
however, let you know that WHRI will host an "appearance" with me in
the morning at 7;15-7:30ish. The more that folks know the cause, the better!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5/28/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom seems to be feeling better these days. With the
temperatures getting warmer outside, it's more difficult to stay out for long
periods of time, but she's doing well with the 'desire' to get out.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We were over on Saturday to fix dinner and were able to enjoy some downtime
with both she and dad. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The MRI from last week showed no progression - which is better than digression.
There was essentially no change. She will continue her 'anti-growing blood vessel'
pills through the month, and will take another chemo pill in about a month.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Also, keep in mind, Madeline (my older sister),and her husband Jeff and
daughter Grace as they are grieving their 2nd loss in pregnancy in the past few
months - it's a difficult time for them, and especially hard that we're all
separated by a few hours. Pray for healing (emotionally, physically, and
spiritually) for the entire family.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We praise God that he listens to us all in our deepest cries and rejoicing! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">6/7/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What an amazing day!! Yesterday (Thursday, June 5) was the
big day of the Jackson Classic! Although it was a rather miserably sweltering
day, we had every ounce of enjoyment that could be had! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On the course, we had 143 players (one shy of a maxed out course) and about 25
volunteers that helped run the show throughout the day. Beginning at <st1:time hour="6" minute="0" w:st="on">6 a.m.</st1:time> is hard, especially when you
know you'll be going late into the night...but we had a blast! Everyone was
kept safe in the heat, and hopefully had a great time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have already heard many many folks comment on how well organized and how
smooth the tournament ran, so thanks to all who helped with that!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I still haven't completed the absolute final numbers yet, but we definitely
raised over $25,000 to support mom and the Brain Tumor Fund for the <st1:place w:st="on">Carolinas</st1:place>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Thank you to everyone who supported through prayer, financially, or even came
out to help or play. Without all of you, the day would not have been anywhere
close to the way it was.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm taking a month off, but then we'll beginning planning for next year!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Thank you thank you thank you...</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDZVwabeOGMuW8c4OcewQNy-jxAimfl1D2uhU0ZGAPIO6Oc9xmb2elKqnQbe13lPRaiBeEfMocL_hUc6z-IvtZlvNytrEM7KRKAcRlb25tafa5KXhwLvexKEm2hycKiMBl9y4z8Hv-V-o/s1600/DSC01428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDZVwabeOGMuW8c4OcewQNy-jxAimfl1D2uhU0ZGAPIO6Oc9xmb2elKqnQbe13lPRaiBeEfMocL_hUc6z-IvtZlvNytrEM7KRKAcRlb25tafa5KXhwLvexKEm2hycKiMBl9y4z8Hv-V-o/s320/DSC01428.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom and Holly</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwege2ROKR9941yrd2NhkbpIWFSVu_3qXCx4i-zAV5p8jtO3mSi6h7i6huntmtAPE9yMSxBEhaBAglI4tYHxTAu2_IdqVH1479gKN-BiyM5sxnyaWi6qpCxyipxPk9z15I9K5gsKWgk4Y/s1600/DSC01446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwege2ROKR9941yrd2NhkbpIWFSVu_3qXCx4i-zAV5p8jtO3mSi6h7i6huntmtAPE9yMSxBEhaBAglI4tYHxTAu2_IdqVH1479gKN-BiyM5sxnyaWi6qpCxyipxPk9z15I9K5gsKWgk4Y/s320/DSC01446.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Jackson Classic 2008 team</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">6/18/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We've had to take some time to calm down after the golf
tournament. It was such a busy time of preparations, but the tournament was
absolutely a blast! The most accurate figures are completed - so far, After
expenses were deducted from a gross $33,000 (that also included gifts donated
for the raffle drawings) the net proceeds were $18,500! Unbelievable! We're
still trying to comprehend everything.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Although mom was feeling well that week, she has since weakened somewhat. Her
blood counts have been on a consistent and rather quick drop since last
Wednesday. At this point, the doctors continue to watch her closely, but have
made no decisions yet to hospitalize, give her blood, or any other procedures.
If her counts continue to drop, it's possible we'll be looking at another blood
transfusion soon.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When her blood counts are low, mom is very lethargic and sleepy and just
doesn't feel well. She been very nauseated as well. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You can pray for strength and rest for her and that her blood count levels will
be boosted naturally, or that the doctors will find the best ways to increase
her counts. Also, pray for dad to have peace and comfort while mom isn't
feeling so well. He's not always easily encouraged to leave her when she's
feeling worse, and worry can easily set in.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">7/19/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">It is a beautiful day out - perfect for
sitting to write a few words...<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Jeremy and I are grateful for your prayers as
we chaperoned and attended the missions trip to <st1:place w:st="on">Appalachia</st1:place>
the last week with our Senior high youth students from the church. We had an
amazing time - for me, it was my 9th trip back on the trip and my 3rd with the
same church...but for Jeremy, it was his first time. I was once again the
infamous "Snack lady" and Jeremy was leading recreation. Our groups
really meshed well together by the end of the week (we were teamed up with a
group from White Oak ARP in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Georgia</st1:place></st1:country-region>).
Jeremy and I actually spent some time with "the other married couple"
with the other team. It was definitely a heart breaking experience, but so
wonderful to see the Lord work in so many different ways. While we were
gone....<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Mom, Dad, Madeline and Grace headed to the
beach for a few days. Although it was a great change of scenery, the trip had
it's share of obstacles to overcome. Once they learned how to get around, and
how to get mom outside to enjoy the beauty of the coast, their time went well,
and quick. Thank you for your prayers for their safety and enjoyment of that
time.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Upon their return, mom continues to be
somewhat lethargic. She has had very little desire to eat, for she seems to be
nauseated for most of her time that she's awake. She has desires to "go
and do" things, knowing that they will help her feel better, but her
energy is severely lacking that it makes those trips a little more difficult. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">From what I hear from she and dad, their rest
is good, although not consistent. Their times at night seem to get disrupted a
bit and they get really good sleep from <st1:time hour="5" minute="0" w:st="on">5-8
a.m.</st1:time> Of course, mom continues to rest most of the day in the
recliner, in and out of sleep. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">She had a dentist appt on Monday ( no
cavities!) and then an MRI on Tuesday. We have waited to hear the results, but
unfortunately only have a vague idea of what's happened since her last chemo
pill.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">What to pray for:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- results from the MRI - what we've been told
thus far is the MRI didn't show much from the tumor area, however there's a
comment that there is "increased thickness in the frontal lobe".
We're not exactly sure what this means, so our minds have begun to create
synopsis for those words. Pray that it's not an urgent issue, and it's solely
a note for the doctors. We won't hear back until Monday at the earliest.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">-energy and rest - although 2 different
ideas, they go hand in hand. mom and dad both need restored energy each day,
and peaceful rest at night, in order for mom to continue fighting, and dad to
continuing caring.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">-increased appetite for mom - the only way
she's going to get more energy is to eat more foods. dad is having a hard time
getting her to want something, and then eat more than a few bites (although his
2nds are starting to become 3rds now with the meals that folks are supplying:))<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">-more opportunities to share the gospel with
others...they've been seeing the same doctors/nurses for the past 6
months...pray for new individuals that don't know Jesus to come in contact with
them, that others will see God's glory through all<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">7/22/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I just wanted to let everyone know that dad had to take mom
to the er at cmc around <st1:time hour="12" minute="0" w:st="on">noon</st1:time>
today. after waking up from her morning nap, she was showing some very abnormal
signs - sluggish communication, more immobility, vitals outrageous, etc.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">They are in the very beginning stages of determining what may have caused all
of this - there are quite a few suggestions, but nothing definite yet.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Urgent prayer is requested at this time for them, and the doctors, in this
particular situation.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I will update you as soon as results have been received.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Just heard from dad - Mom has been admitted
into the hospital.Her CT scan came back okay with no signs of bleeding,
therefore no stroke.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">However, signs point to some seizure
activity. This being the case, the docs are going to switch mom's anti-seizure
meds and monitor her with them. They have to be careful because these types of
medications can cause severe interference with the other meds mom takes for
other reasons. There's no telling how short or long her stay will be.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We continue to pray for victories, as
everyday is one. Thank you for joining in our quest - <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">7/23/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A decent uneventful evening in <st1:address w:st="on"><st1:street w:st="on">suite</st1:street> 9108</st1:address>....</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I actually made 2 trips to the hospital last night, the first mom was somewhat
awake, but not too coherent. On the second trip, she was peacefully resting.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Apparently, upon waking this morning, she showed some similar abnormalities as
yesterday, that scared dad a bit - a lot of mumbo-jumbo, that wasn't
understandable. He and the nurses expressed concerns, and they've decided to
keep mom for another day/night. They will be momentarily taking her for another
MRI and see how that compares with the one from last Tuesday.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pray that - </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-there would be absolutely NO evident signs of tumor growth</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-the docs would be able to quickly determine and solve the source of these
abnormalities</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-the level of seizure activity would be mild</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-the meds that mom is getting is enough (currently she's on 2,000 mgs of her
anti-seizure med, she can take up to 4,000mgs before they have to consider
another medication)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-dad would have strength</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-they would continue to witness 'angels on the 9th floor'</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">What a long day! Jeremy and i just got in
from the hospital. we can tell we're getting old when <st1:time hour="23" minute="0" w:st="on">11 p.m.</st1:time> feels like 3 in the morning!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Mom ended up having 2 different MRIs done
today. the doctor seemed to be pleased with the first (not showing any evidence
with problems in the tumor)...however there was some question with another
portion, hence the 2nd MRI. They were thinking that there was just movement
from the first test, and that showed up a little odd on the readings, so they
just wanted to check.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">so far, there's been no word on those
reports, so we're assuming all passed on those as well. the docs still wanted
to monitor mom on the 2,000mg dosage of the anti-seizure med, so she's spending
another night. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">we're praying for a restful night, and
hopefully a safe trip home tomorrow!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">good night!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">7/24/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Mom is home!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">They were able to get out of the room before
lunchtimish:)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The doc had come back to give some results
from that 2nd mri from yesterday - apparently there is small concern of a
vessel on the left side of the brain - it has some restriction in it. Now, the
best way to treat these sorts of things is surgery or popping asprin on a
regular basis. Unfortunately, mom is not a candidate for surgery (given her
intense past 3 and past months of illness) and she is unable to take aspirin,
for it interferes with many of the medications she HAS to take.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">So, we just have to be on the look out. If
this vessel becomes an even bigger issue, it could cause more seizure
activity, a stroke, or numerous other things - so we'll continue to pray that
the restrictions on the vessel wouldn't be worsened in any way (despite the
lack of "treatment" mom will get for the correction of it).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Thank you for your prayers in these last few
days - we're completely exhausted and ask that you pray for renewal this
weekend.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">7/28/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Just talked with mom this morning. She was waking up from a
nap, so our conversation wasn't much of anything, but it was nice to talk with
her this time. She and dad had a typical weekend, but mom's strength continues
to lessen and lessen daily. She seemed to fair out decently well through the
weekend, and hopefully dad was able to rest some. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">They did have some excitement yesterday, as they made it out to my in-laws for
my nephews 1st year birthday party. Mom was bound and determined to celebrate
with Will, so we were all glad to have her there.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Continue to pray for rest and renewed strength and energy for them both. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You are a blessing,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">7/30/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I'm at home with mom and dad right now, after
just returning from the appointment with the oncologist that went fairly well.
The information received from a previous MRI about "increased
thickness" was discussed and determined to not be necessarily as big of an
issue as we originally thought. The doctor believe that this thickness is not
the direct cause of mom's weakening body each day. There also seems to be a bit
of swelling (which could account for some of that thickness). So for now, the
plan is as follows:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- begin taking the steroids on a low dosage
to decrease any swelling and give a boost to mom. this dose will be tapered
each week, to hopefully only last about a month (she has been off steroids for
6 weeks, so she's not too excited about starting them back, but they WILL help
her feel better!)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- depending on how quickly and well she
reacts with the steroids, and assuming she does well, the docs will determine
when and how soon to give the next dose of chemo(which will probably be half of
the original dose). her blood counts will need to be good in order to proceed
with this as well<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Her strength is still lacking more and more
each day and she is sleeping more than she used to. Her wit is still
there...it's just a little delayed sometimes. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We had a fun evening last night, as Tonia
Bendickson from WBTV came to do an interview for a story they will be posting
soon about the Presbyterian Criterium which will raise funds for the Brain
Tumor Fund. This story should air twice (once on Thurs or Fri in the 5-6:30
newscast) and then definitely on Saturday between <st1:time hour="20" minute="0" w:st="on">8-9 p.m.</st1:time> during their live coverage of the criterium.
Although it was fun - she was absolutely tuckered out, and is still trying to
recover.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">For your prayer list - <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- continue to pray for rest and renewal each
day for both dad and mom<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- pray specifically for strength in mom's
left side, for she has none, and this makes it difficult for dad to lift and
maneuver her to the chair, bed, etc. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- pray that mom would be eating more each day
- she's eating about 1500 calories, just enough to sustain the energy she does
have<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">-pray that the steroids will kick in quickly
and restore some energy and decrease the swelling<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- pray for the final preparations for the
criterium bike race on Saturday. we plan to go and watch and celebrate when
they honor mom for the women's race<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">....until next time, we're one step closer - <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">8/04/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What an amazing weekend! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My sister and Grace came into town late Friday evening for the weekend
festivities.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We met up with them on Saturday afternoon on our way up to <st1:city w:st="on">Charlotte</st1:city> for the Presbyterian Criterium -
the bike race that raises money for the Brain Tumor Fund.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Before the women began their race, the announcer gave a brief welcome to Mom
and the family, and giving the racers the idea that they were racing in honor
of Mom. IT was a great moment - 84 of some of the best women bikers in the
world acknowledged mom and got so fired up. Mom was able to stay through the
entire race (about an hour), then some horrible winds hit, and she was about
done for, so they left.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Jeremy and I stayed through the men's race and were totally blown away
(literally) every time the pack would race by us.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We had the greatest seats! VIP section right at the start/finish line, so we
saw everything happen, first hand!! It was such a great event and even we felt
honored to represent mom at the men's race too.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Apparently the story that WBTV did was good too, although I haven't seen it
yet. They were such nice people and seemed so caring, even on Saturday evening.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwFoQIzPMWr3J6lEcRWsPN91j3Sd_vao4rJsR-2UIofA2S5iDx3dg8nITYLNEFcrnFomgN2WVyiQbPBKOHy9IGnyaums0vohC5zS1GIOQWoxilA1uPFEivYqe1kX4oymxTGwE33a8bywA/s1600/DSC01800.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwFoQIzPMWr3J6lEcRWsPN91j3Sd_vao4rJsR-2UIofA2S5iDx3dg8nITYLNEFcrnFomgN2WVyiQbPBKOHy9IGnyaums0vohC5zS1GIOQWoxilA1uPFEivYqe1kX4oymxTGwE33a8bywA/s320/DSC01800.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Criterium Race with mom as the honorary member</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom is feeling 'okay'. She has definitely gotten some perkiness back (maybe
from being back on steroids), but she hasn't regained much strength. Asking her
to move her left leg is like asking a parked car to do a donut! But dad is
being patient with her (sometimes:)) and it's also helpful when Jeremy and/or I
am around to help out with lifting and moving.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Keep praying for rest and renewal!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">8/19/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's Tuesday - over 2 weeks since I last wrote. It's been
quite the 2 weeks and we've been so busy!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom took her 2nd dose of chemo last week and seems to be doing well at this
point. It is a lower dosage than the previous (they have to recalculate each
time with weight changes, etc). Her side-effects have seemed to be minimal,
although definitely present. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Two very exciting things are approaching us - the first being a BIRTHDAY
CELEBRATION!!!! Mom will be able to get her discount on McD's coffee on
Saturday. <st1:date day="23" month="8" w:st="on" year="2008">August 23, 2008</st1:date>
will be such a blessed day, and we look forward to celebrating with mom this
day. We've planned just a small gathering of family for dinner and dessert, but
are just incredibly thankful to have her birthday to celebrate. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Secondly, Jeremy and I have begun the processes of purchasing a home. We close
on Sept 5 and are super excited! We're very glad that we'll be close to both
sets of parents - they're both only 5-7 minutes away! Of course we'll miss our
current arrangements immensely! Mom has even cried being so excited about the
home purchase. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Another great thing (selfishly) - Jeremy and I are going to the beach for a few
days of vacation next week - yipppeeee!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Continue to pray for:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-the chemo to do it's damage (but to the tumor only:))</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-much needed rest and relaxation</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-strength, energy, and appetite for mom</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-dad's health (nothing wrong, but pray it remains)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-the rest of the home-purchasing details to go well</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-our adjustment to being homeowners</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-much needed rest and relaxation on the <st1:city w:st="on">Ghent</st1:city>
vacation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">8/27/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We had a fantastic weekend! All of the fun
and festivities began on Friday when 3 wonderful ladies from church came to
visit mom and dad, bringing subs, coconut cake, and ice cream. After lunch was
over, we all got involved in a serious game of Scrabble. Mom used to always win
this game, and although she doesn't always win, she definitely still holds her
own:) After a great afternoon, she was absolutely exhausted, so she rested for
the latter part, and waited for the safe arrival of my sister and grace for
their visit.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">On Saturday, mom's ladies group from church
had their monthly breakfast, and since mom couldn't go, they came to her
afterwards, bringing cards, smiles, and small gifts. We are soooo thankful for
the women of Ebenezer that have reached out to mom (and to me) over the past
1.5 years and shown her so much love. Mom said that the day was even better
that they had come to visit.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">That evening, i had fixed chicken enchiladas
(our usual Christmas day dinner) for the immediate family. Then, the rest of
the family came over for chocolate delight (my first attempt-and it was great!)
and birthday cake. It was such a busy night, but mom had a great time! She
certainly had no problems sleeping:)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">On Sunday, we had both sets of parents (mom
and dad, Bruce and Debbie) over for pizza. This was a nice time for us
especially. Jeremy and I are so blessed to have 2 sets of amazing parents that
we love so much and we can all fellowship together...I don't know how else to
imagine it!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Mom has been feeling okay for the most part.
I've been trying to chat with her when she's awake, and when she's awake, she's
lively. Of course her getting around is still very slow, and her strength is
still lacking somewhat, she seems to be feeling good, and enjoying the moments
that she is awake.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Continue praying for: <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- the weening of the steroids (should be
ending this round in the next week or so)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- continued activation of the chemo she took
2 weeks ago<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- rest and renewal for mom and dad both<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">8/28/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Just wanted to give a quick update. Jeremy
and I have safely made it to the beach, and to my surprise, we actually had a
full day of sunshine! But before we got off, we weren't quite sure we'd make
it...<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">the phone rang at 1230 a.m. last night/this
morning, and it was dad, saying he had called an ambulance to come and get mom
- she had fallen while dad was helping her into bed. She slipped, leaned
towards the left, fell against the chest of drawers, and then continued on the
way down, only to hit a pointy part of the wheel chair. She had a
"puncture" wound, and dad wasn't sure that she was "a-okay"
so he was thinking they were going to the hospital. Thankfully, the EMTs were
able to patch up the wound and check mom out at home, then help back into bed
before leaving. Sleep around the Jackson/Ghent households was essentially non
existent last night...<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">but PRAISE THE LORD, she is not suffering
terribly from the fall. She does have several bruises and seems to be quite
sore, but she was able to sleep and rest today. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">There are still many things that are
hazardous for mom to do, getting in bed being one of them. It's so important to
us to keep encouraging her to do the "normal tasks" but we need to be
reminded of what is good for her, and what needs to happen to make situations
better. Pray that we would know how to respond to those situations.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">For now, back to the waves crashing....<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">9/23/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This update finds all to be a little more improved than the
last scare of</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">mom's fall. Since then, she's been recovering, with an exceptional amount</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">of energy! She's still sleeping a good bit, but when she's awake, she's</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">AWAKE. I sometimes think she's got more energy than me! Her appetite hasn't</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">gotten any bigger, but dad continues to make sure she's getting enough</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">nutrients each day. The past check up with the oncologist was great - they</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">were so positive in the way mom was looking, and could tell she was feeling</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">better - especially since her last visit. She is beginning to taper down the</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">steroids again (we don't like being on steroids, although they do increase</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">her strength and energy and appetite - but the less she's on, the better).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">She didn't have an MRI yet, but that should be coming up soon. One of the</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">greatest things over the past month is that mom has been able to visit us in</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">the house twice now. It does take a bit of brainstorming and patience to</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">figure out how to get up or down the front porch steps, but she's determined</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">to see everything!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In the life of the Ghents, we have officially moved into our new home and</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">are loving it! We do miss our apartment lifestyle and will be forever</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">grateful for our friends there! We're thankful that our home is in a</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">wonderful neighborhood with young couples and families - 8 of which attend</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">First ARP or Ebenezer, plus the many more we've already become friends with.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We thank you for your prayers on our behalf as we spent many months</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">faithfully in God's search for our home, and over the past weeks as we have</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">spent many hours working on making the house ours.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A few requests:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- pray that the chemo would continue to work its course on the tumor.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- pray that the next dose of chemo won't be too overwhelming for mom's body.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- pray that mom would continue to be faithful and have the capacity to</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">rejoice!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- pray that mom and dad's health would be good during this season of</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">allergy/cold/infections.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- pray that we would be able to find a way to make it easier for mom to</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">visit our house more often</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">9/29/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was finally recovered enough this weekend to be around
mom. Since her blood counts have continued to drop, she doesn't need any other
exposure to possible viruses, etc...so my sinus infection (although treated
with antibiotics) was posing a threat to her. After 2 weeks of going without
seeing her, we finally were able to go out to dinner for my birthday to
longhorn (the best bread in the whole wide world). Then, we were able to do our
Sunday afternoon visit yesterday. Overall, she's 'good'...but you have to
understand - her strength is incredibly minimal at this point, especially on the
left side. It's difficult for her to move, lift, use her left arm, and moving
her left leg is practically close to impossible. So that presents a series of
difficulties in itself. Her strength never really 'improves'...but she has
strong moments throughout the day. Tomorrow, she will go up to <st1:city w:st="on">Charlotte</st1:city> for to see the oncologist and to
hear the results from the MRI she had on Friday.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pray for:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-positive results on the MRI (if no shrinkage, at least no activity)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-wisdom for the oncologist to know how to proceed with the next dosage of chemo</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-dad and his strength...he has to compensate for mom a good bit</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-enough gas to remain in the Camry for 'in case of' emergencies, and enough to
get to Charlotte and back for the next few days</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-the upcoming Brain Tumor Fund RuBiRu race on Oct 25 - if you want to join
'Team Debi', let me know! http://www.rubiru.com/ </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Praise God for:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-healing my sickness so that we can be of help and visit with mom and dad</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-opportunities for dad to get out and do some yard work while mom is sleeping
(it's a great outlet for him)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-the work of the chemo in mom's tumor already</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-the wonderful doctors and nurses that have personal (not just medical)
interest in mom AND her family</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">9/30/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Just talked with dad after their 2 hour appointment with the
oncologist. Unfortunately, not the greatest of news, but again, it wasn't too
surprising either. With the way mom has been feeling, acting, and moving, we
knew there was a little something 'just not right.'</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The MRI from Friday shows obvious growth in the lower portion of the tumor in
the brain, either of the same tumor, or perhaps of a smaller, newer tumor.
She's also had quite a bit of swelling, which pushes everything around in the
brain, and messes with her speech, thought, movement, and coordination. (To
give you an idea, for those of you who have seen the dip in her head from where
the boneflap is missing....she had a headache the other day, and with all of
the swelling, there was no dip in the head. Wow!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So the outcome, and what's next...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">mom will no longer take the Thalomid and chemotherapy, since it apparently
wasn't doing anything to the tumor. She will, however, restart the Avastin (the
drug that kills the blood vessels all throughout the body, in hopes of killing
those directly associated with feeding the tumor). As you may remember earlier
this year in January, she had some difficultly after taking this medicine, and
had the pulmonary embolism, and spent a while in rehab. So we're praying that
the coumadin she's on now will prevent any types of blood clotting, and allow
the med to work it's magic on the tumor and possible new tumor.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom will also join a special 'coumadin clinic' that will be specific in
monitoring her blood pt levels and be able to give more or less of that blood
thinning medication when she needs it. This is definitely a better option for
her, rather than having the local doc checking it out.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Also, tomorrow, a team of specialists in this field will take a look at mom's
reports and pictures and see what else they might be able to do (more meds,
surgery, etc). After her 3rd (and what we thought final) surgery, the
suggestion was that mom not undergo any more surgery, for she could not
withstand it. So we anticipate these possible options that are thought out
tomorrow.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As you can tell, this can be a tumultuous time for us. There are so many
unknowns and unexpected things for us to think about...we praise God for His
provisions thus far, and know that he will continuously carry us through this
journey. Sometimes we find ourselves complacent in this situation, because
things have become the 'norm' and not just 'mom's sick' but because there
hasn't been great and drastic change. Her body is weaker and weaker each day,
but we've seen this over the past 18 months time. As I often tell folks, she's
'okay' and for all intense purposes, she is okay....but she isn't. She's
severely ailing with this tumor in her brain and has little capacity of doing
anything she wants. But she continues to press on, and has been quite stable
for the past months. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So when we find out news like today, it comes with mixed emotion....of course,
sadness because no one wants to hear things are getting worse and we need to
try new meds...But then too, some part of comfort and peace fills my soul,
knowing that we're about to enter into yet another chapter of this life with
mom - and we know without a doubt, we have the joy of leaning on our Father to
carry us through it together - just as he has done specifically since March 18,
2007. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Join with me in praising God for His faithfulness and earnestly seeking his
care, wisdom, and steadfastness in these next steps for mom, and us all...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">10/20/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom seems to be doing great with her new treatment. She's
also been </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">regaining some strength and feeling better in general. This doesn't mean by </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">any stretch that she's fully recovering, but she IS able to stay awake for </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">longer times, doesn't seem to struggle as much in standing up, and is able </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">to be more focused in conversation. Continue to pray for this treatment </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">that it will be best suitable for her and the doctors would be able to </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">monitor her well. She does still have a spastic pt/inr level (connected </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">with the thickness/thinness of the blood). Currently, her blood is a little </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">too thick, so they must increase her blood thinner. This is especially </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">important, because her blood needs to be flowing well enough so that when </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">the other new medication starts working (remember, it cuts off <span class="yshortcuts">blood vessels</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">in hopes of killing the ones feeding the <span class="yshortcuts">brain tumor</span>)
, her blood doesn't </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">stop completely and cause other complications. Another issue has risen - some
type of allergic reaction of sorts on her right leg - and it's painful. so
she'll be heading to the doctor some point soon. Thank you for your prayers </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">on her behalf.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On another note, we have 2 family relatives who currently need prayers of </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">healing and peace at this time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Claude Jacobs, Madeline's father-in-law, has finally returned home from the </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">hospital after a stay there to recover from a bout with cellulite around an </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">incision on his leg from his recent bypass surgery. At one point last week, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">his condition was rather critical, so we <span class="yshortcuts">praise God</span>
for his return home, and </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">continue to pray for him and his wife, Patsy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Also, <span class="yshortcuts">this Friday</span>, dad's sister-in-law will have
carotid artery surgery. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">She feels great and confidant about the procedure, however, it still makes </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">one nervous. Pray for guidance of the doctors and quickness of the process </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">of cleaning out the artery. She should be at home by <span class="yshortcuts">Saturday
afternoon</span>, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and we'll pray for speedy recovery and renewal of strength.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom and Dad</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celebrating our move into the new house </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">10/24/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Just wanted all to know the update on MY AUNT
PHYL (that's my dad's sister in law:))...<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">bright and early we all made it to the
hospital this morning for a quite uneventful morning - all went amazing well,
she was taken back, pre-oped, gone into surgery and was out before we knew it! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">mom and dad were even able to make it to the
hospital to visit before surgery and actually stayed through the entire
surgery. of course, mom was absolutely exhausted, so she stole away for a little
rest this afternoon. but she did well in her wheelchair - another answered
prayer. many many thanks for all of your heart prayers throughout the morning.
we definitely appreciate all that you do for us. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Jeremy and i were able to see everyone again
tonight, and all is well. we even had a chance to fellowship and feed over
dinner with Uncle Ralph (MY DAD'S BROTHER), Kim and Holly (MY COUSINS and Dad's
nieces). <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Lord was in the midst of us once again
this day - how could we ever deny his presence??<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Tomorrow morning (again, bright and early),
Jeremy and I, along with another friend (Ellie) will be running in the RuBiRu
in support of the BTFC (<a href="http://www.btfcnc.org/">www.btfcnc.org</a>) and
in honor of mom. we're excited, but we've had a long day, and tomorrow will be
another, but we're pumped about the cause. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">11/05/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Things are going well thus far into mom's treatments. She's had 3 already and
seems to be doing well with them. Last Friday, she did start receiving another
type of med, that has caused a few bumps here and there, but nothing to be
frightened about. Dad continues to love on her and care for her, but lately,
I've had some opportunities to spend time with them.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Dad and I did our traditional 'Operation Christmas Child shoebox shopping' this
morning. We've been doing that for quite sometime - something just he and I do.
Although it took right at 2 hours of standing and looking in Walmart, we made
it out well, spending a bit less than we normally do (which isn't a bad thing),
and seeing a few folks that ALL asked about mom. We were just glad that Dad was
able to leave her side for a few minutes (or hours) to go and do that.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I made dinner for them last night - Pumpkin Black Bean soup. Now, don't turn
your nose up. It was SUPER YUMMY!!!! Let me know if you'd like to try, and I
can give you the recipe...or even invite you over the next time we have it!
They loved it, and I loved fixing it for them.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tomorrow is Thursday, our weekly lunchtime gathering. Since Jeremy and I were
beginning to have super busy evenings, we decided to do lunch at least once a
week - so I'll be excited to spend some time with them tomorrow. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As we continue to give thanks, I am especially grateful for marriage. Jeremy
and I celebrated our 2nd anniversary at the beginning of October and I've already
learned (and will continue to learn, I'm sure) about the blessing of marriage.
And now to see it through in the daily lives of my parents...I'm so lucky that
I have such a model to look at, and to see love in it's true expression. Join
with me in celebrating with mom and dad 34 years of marriage on Sunday....many
more to come! </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celebrating 34 years of marriage (Nov 9, 2008)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">11/17/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Just wanted to give a quick update on the Jackson/Ghent
front...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom had her 4th treatment on Friday - but was unable to receive the chemo
because of low counts. She seems to be holding well with the other medicine,
and it definitely is making her stronger bit by bit. On Saturday, they came to
our house and mom was able to climb the 4 steps and walk to the recliner! It
was so fun to watch her, but it wore her out. I am taking my running ability
for granted! I was able to rejoice with her at walking 25 feet!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">She and dad both are ready for the holiday season to begin. That means more
time with family, and more to look forward to.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I hear comments from them each day about the kindnesses that you all are giving
to them - your meals, sweets, flowers, gifts, love, etc...I appreciate you all
for everything!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The next treatment will be Dec 1, and I believe an MRI will follow sometime in
the month. We are faithful that this new treatment series is attacking the
tumor as hard as it can!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The biggest thing to pray for - blood. Mom's pressure has been a bit elevated
since beginning the new meds...that can lead to many things, so pray that her
pressure would be stabilized and her counts to rise so that she can receive the
chemo next time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">12/08/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">good morning. I write this morning very tired
and sick. Jeremy and I unfortunately both have some type of cold/flu/sinus
stuff, and we're both at home today - it's pitiful, and I was starting to
wonder who's going to go get the chicken noodle soup (and saltines, bc we're
out) and grape juice - the ultimate foods that cure any cold/sinus junk?? <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I did want to share that mom has been
successful on her recent treatments over the past month, and PRAISE THE LORD
has not gotten any of the colds or stomach bugs going around. She's remained
mostly healthy and regaining a bit of strength here and there.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">She and dad are in <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Charlotte</st1:place></st1:city> right now, getting an MRI - she
hasn't had one in a few months (since she started the new treatment), so we
should see some great results. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Pray with us that she will be able to endure
the MRI (she really hates those machines) and that we would hear good results
and see some massive shrinkage.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Thank you for your prayers!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">12/12/08</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Great news! Dad just called and I said 'What's up dad?' and
he responded...'you mean, what's down?!' That's right, the original tumor has
seen shrinkage since Sept 26, the last MRI. Then, it was 2.5x2.3 mm and now is
2.1x2.0 mm - about a 20% shrinkage! And the new tumor growth has seen a bit of
shrinkage as well, but not enough to give details.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We're so happy that mom has been healthy since the start of these medications
2.5 months ago and pray that she will continue to regain strength while she
remains on them. Pray also that we will continue to see the tumor go away in
time!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">She'll remain in <st1:city w:st="on">Charlotte</st1:city>
for most of the rest of the afternoon, receiving her treatments, and then
they'll make their way back to <st1:city w:st="on">Rock
Hill</st1:city>. Thank you for your prayers this day!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Blessings,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">12/21/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Mom unfortunately has had a very rough day - possibly an
attack of the stomach bug virus that's been going around. She and dad had
stayed in all last week, but ventured out to be among the hustle and bustle of
Christmas (mom has A<st1:stockticker w:st="on">LWAY</st1:stockticker>S loved
being a part of the busyness). She may have caught a bit of something then. Or
else, something she ate just didn't settle well and has hurt her all day. After
an intense morning, she has slept much of the day, unable to eat but nibbles,
and barely able to get the meds down.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">You may remember that the last time we got
such good news (as the 22.5% shrinkage from last week).. this time last year -
the 19.7% shrinkage...then along came the pulmonary embolism that made a huge
setback. So, we ask your prayers - for Satan loves to attack the good news -
mom really needs to remain super healthy, especially this week as Christmas
approaches and time with family is a lot. With our family, we like to do a lot
of gathering, so we want her to be a part as well, but she needs to be well,
and we'll all have to take precautions.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Continue to pray for a healthy body to
overtake any of the sickness she may have. Also pray for dad, as he had a hard
day caring for mom. He wants nothing more than for her to feel comfortable, and
when she isn't, he's almost sick to his stomach. You can also pray for Madeline
and Jeff and Grace, as they've been sick, and Madeline still is very ill, and
won't be able to come to <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Rock Hill</st1:place></st1:city>
as soon as they had hoped.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Blessings this week as we near the light of
Christ...<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">12/25/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Merry Christmas. Just wanted to write a quick
note of excitement and joy, as we're winding down a busy day of family, food,
and celebration. We've enjoyed our time with one another, and although mom's
seriously exhausted, she's been able to endure most of the festivities. This
afternoon, mom played "the quiet game" and slept for about 4 hours! I
made chicken pot pie, brown rice, and steamed cauliflower - what a Christmas
meal?!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Her blood work is still very poor, her
breathing has gotten a bit heavier, and her strength is still disappearing -
however, our Savior has been born and that is enough to push through any of our
weaknesses! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Blessings to you this special season. We hope
all of you were able to experience the birth of Christ in such a way that we
could this year.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Merry Christmas!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZoR-8PhfuVmc6aGGmRJlcg3Hro9SOclrH4KctSGukL4D1i3B46Xd4T8BlsIfm3ZvV9LCBh8xz9w1KQ-rWUoRzivX2uI-J3XDoQ6QYkpXVAL1pmBjfk-FWHfqF3oWdTLZ4-7X8HEnxoM/s1600/DSC02245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZoR-8PhfuVmc6aGGmRJlcg3Hro9SOclrH4KctSGukL4D1i3B46Xd4T8BlsIfm3ZvV9LCBh8xz9w1KQ-rWUoRzivX2uI-J3XDoQ6QYkpXVAL1pmBjfk-FWHfqF3oWdTLZ4-7X8HEnxoM/s320/DSC02245.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Opening Christmas gifts, 2008</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-cXA9NFOMy7Y_v0-gjRKI-lf-aetpkdDLGzuX7zXRHeIFp7a0zfx4gs0oBPtat0TmhBVduXn5uoYq6yl18hdX4EP4eu8r8y8mo73F1VwfW0h_ViXdOp68vrV6Nb6wTssx48PcouY7uJI/s1600/DSC02233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-cXA9NFOMy7Y_v0-gjRKI-lf-aetpkdDLGzuX7zXRHeIFp7a0zfx4gs0oBPtat0TmhBVduXn5uoYq6yl18hdX4EP4eu8r8y8mo73F1VwfW0h_ViXdOp68vrV6Nb6wTssx48PcouY7uJI/s320/DSC02233.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom was wearing an ugly sweater, Christmas 2008</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/09/09</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Mom went for her treatment this morning, but
was unable to receive the meds for a couple of reasons: For those of you who
may know, my sister and I have been sick a good bit since Thanksgiving with
colds, flu, bronchitis, laryngitis, sinus infections, etc. With the season of
caring, also comes sharing. Unfortunately, by the time all of the holidays were
over, mom went to the doc and was treated for an upper respiratory infection.
She's been on antibiotics since last Saturday. Her counts have been low, and
her blood pressure out of the roof! So, they decided to let the antibiotics run
their course, get her back to better health, and allow her some time to regain
strength. So- they will be doing the treatment <st1:stockticker w:st="on">NEXT</st1:stockticker>
Friday instead. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Then, the next step will be an MRI, a visit
to the neurologist (mom hasn't seen one since her diagnosis, so this will be
key in determining if anything else is happening "upstairs"), and the
next treatment all during the same week in February (first week). So, That will
be a busy week - but until then, she'll be nursing back to health and
recovering from the past few days.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">In other exciting news, since the new year
has begun, the insurance company is allowing more in-home physical therapy. So,
a couple of times a week for the next few months, mom will have some help in learning
how to do things for gaining more strength (and dad will have a little extra
help for an hour here and there).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Continue praying for her, as well as dad,
that he would remain healthy in order to care for her.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">My sister is doing well. Although I have yet
to speak with her this week, I did receive word from her that they were able to
see the baby again, and all looks well at this point. Let's continue praying
beside them for the days ahead in her pregnancy.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Ideas are starting to bloom for the 2nd annual
Jackson Classic. I'm hoping to get together with the other director from last
year to get some things squared away - we'll let you know where YOU can help!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Blessings!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/25/09</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Good morning. I write to you this morning
with rather concerning news, as the past 14+ hours have been an absolute roller
coaster. Around <st1:time hour="16" minute="0" w:st="on">4 p.m.</st1:time>
yesterday, dad was helping mom in the shower and bathroom, and notice she was
becoming very unresponsive. He ultimately had to call an ambulance. Upon their
arrival, her breathing was shallow and quick and she was still not responding
(wasn't able to talk, couldn't follow fingers, was sleeping a lot). We agreed
to let her be taken to <st1:place w:st="on">Piedmont</st1:place> to get her
stable and then we would go to CMC. Before the ambulance left the house, the
EMTs decided her breathing was so little and light, that they needed to
intubate her in order to help her breathe more. By <st1:time hour="18" minute="0" w:st="on">6 p.m.</st1:time> she had been admitted to the ER and was
beginning to run tests. All blood work, x-ray of chest, CT of head and chest
showed nothing "unusual" or nothing that isn't already there (the
mass in her brain, residual from last year's blood clot, etc). When the folks
at <st1:place w:st="on">Piedmont</st1:place> realized they had no clue, and no
history of mom, they finally agreed to let her go to CMC - via MEDVAC!!!!! So,
the helicopter landing was loud, but they loaded mom up, and dad got to be
co-pilot for their 10 minute flight to <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Charlotte</st1:place></st1:city>.
By <st1:time hour="4" minute="30" w:st="on">4:30 a.m.</st1:time> she was still
getting settled and still running some similar tests. They were also hoping to
get an MRI at some point. Jeremy and I came home to get some sleep around 5
this morning and are anxious to hear from dad.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The situation is this: at this point, there's
been no determining cause of what happened and why. Of course, there were
speculations of a stroke, or even another pulmonary embolism (blood clot near
her lungs)...but those haven't been ruled as the diagnosis. We're still waiting
to hear. We're also hoping that she can get the tubes out of her - she's
incredibly uncomfortable - as i know we all would be. That means she needs to
be able to breathe on her own. After that point, I don't what is the next step
at this time.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Please pray:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- rest and comfort for mom, dad, my sister
and I and our husbands, children, and extended family<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- wisdom for the doctors as they search for a
cause and treatment for mom<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- that we could take the tube out as soon as
possible and she would be able to keep steady breath<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- that we would be able to see God's glory
and good and perfect will at this time<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We are truly confidant in Our Father!! Jeremy
and I arrived this morning at the hospital by 10 and were able to spend a
couple of hours back in mom's ICU room. She had a decently restful evening, and
dad was at her side the entire night (although not so restful for him). The
nurses cared for her all night and slowly weaned her off the need for the
breathing tube and by <st1:time hour="8" minute="0" w:st="on">8 a.m.</st1:time>
she was breathing solo. So, around 11 this morning, they took the tube out.
PRAISE THE LORD!! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">A lung doctor came in to check on her and helped
confirm that this was not an issue with a blood clot or pulmonary embolism. He
is more thinking that it was a seizure....so, they're arranging for an MRI and
an EEG to see if there's any activity with the tumor, and to review what's been
going on with her brain activity. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I imagine those tests will take a portion of
the afternoon to run, so we probably will just be hanging around the hospital.
We're so grateful to have such an amazing bond between our family (currently 12
of us are in the waiting room together) and all of our friends (and wonderful
neighbors!) I ask that you continue to unite with us in praise for what the
Lord has done in these past days, and what He will do in the days to come. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We pray now for:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- mom's recovery from the tube (she's coughing
a lot, struggling to swallow, only about to get liquid from a swab, etc)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- CLEAR results from the next few tests -
that a diagnosis would be revealed and confirmation of treatment<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">-preparations for a return home (to see if
we'll need to bring anything to the house to make things easier)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I just got off "nurse duty." During
off-hours of ICU visitation, they're letting us sit back with mom in groups of
2, so we've been letting dad sleep and eat, and learning the ropes of caring
for mom right now. For the past few hours, I've been giving her an oral swab
soaked with ice water, and trying to clean out anything that happens to get
coughed up. I've been learning her "code" of communication, and
trying to fill all of the new nurses, doctors, therapists and other staff in on
her condition. At this point, a few new things...<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- the doctors have come to us with 2 or 3
more possibilities of what is going on from abnormalities they've seen through
other tests. So they are waiting for another MRI of her brain, the EEG (to
verify the seizure), an ultrasound of her heart, and a few other scans and
x-rays of her chest/lungs. For the most part, these other "possibilities"
are rather serious, but we can't take action until we know for sure. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The extended family has left for the
afternoon and will return later this evening for the 9-11 visitation time. It
has been such a LOOONG day, and it's barely <st1:time hour="17" minute="0" w:st="on">5 p.m.</st1:time>!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Keep praying for-<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- more rest for dad - he did get 1.5 hrs of
hard sleep, but he def. needs more<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- patience for us as we just sit and wait<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">-for the other "possibilities" to
be ruled out<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- safe travels as we go back and forth to and
from Charlotte<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- Madeline (the oldest daughter) as she is
about 17 weeks along in pregnancy, and this uneasy, anxious time makes it
difficult for the mommy to get rest<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">PRAISE THE LORD for a body of believers. Your
prayers are a blessing to us all.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnRmRdQcD8vQ7ujbdUVpjDv4Df5mnxgKACemD8osxcpquC5xOaqg0vSONkCYOO4CcNMOP786OQk5GyXZSQFsdvjKF8dkaStEv6CazMSitgSEyosIEy_Kxk5D3Oh1Y1Wos7Sq910k8MpVs/s1600/DSC02290.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnRmRdQcD8vQ7ujbdUVpjDv4Df5mnxgKACemD8osxcpquC5xOaqg0vSONkCYOO4CcNMOP786OQk5GyXZSQFsdvjKF8dkaStEv6CazMSitgSEyosIEy_Kxk5D3Oh1Y1Wos7Sq910k8MpVs/s320/DSC02290.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Resting peacefully after her stroke/seizure that marked the beginning of the end</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/26/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Good morning. Jeremy and I made it up early
this morning to avoid traffic and to get here for any doctors or tests that we
could be a part of.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Dad said mom had a restful night and had no
seizure activity after we had left (<st1:time hour="22" minute="0" w:st="on">10pm</st1:time>).
PRAISE THE LORD - NO MORE SEIZURES!! She has switched to a different
anti-seizure med and that will hopefully help calm those episodes. We also were
able to watch the EEG (that reads the brain activity) which was neat, but we
have no clue what all of the squiggles mean. We'll wait to hear from the doctor
that reads them. We're also anticipating a visit from mom's oncologist and the
infectious disease doc (to give more info on mom's shingles), as well as those
other tests.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/26/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Good evening...I can't believe it's dark.
Over 12 hours ago I came into the waiting room, and I'm still in the same
square footage now that i was then. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">You've probably been checking the site
numerous times today, only to find that I haven't posted much. Well, that's
because not much has happened. It was pretty "boring" but in a good
way, although we were hoping some things would have been done by now. As I type
this, dad has accompanied mom to get the MRI so at least that's taken care of now.
Just a few more tests to run - who knows when that will.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">On a positive note, the docs keep saying that
mom no longer meets criteria for ICU but they have not yet transferred her to a
regular room. However, she's getting great care in ICU, and there's a huge
waiting area that the "Jackson Family" has claimed for waiting. It's
got enough chairs for everyone, clean floors, a tv, a phone, and a desk (for
those of us that have to work:() It's been rather quiet all weekend so we're
able to catch some sleep every now and then.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We are extremely weary now...and heavily
exhausted! Normally it takes about 5 days for the exhaustion to set in...but it
hit quickly this time. Keep praying for rest for everyone. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We continue to feel God's presence and Spirit
with us, through messages, mail, and your kindnesses - and we feel so free and
overcome with joy that you all are willing to care for such an exhausted
family. We know that anytime we're at CMC, God's angels come to us in many
ways...in fact, I witnessed God's angels at work last night when Jeremy and I
got home. God knows us, knows what we need, and when we need it...and are
faithful that he will continue to provide.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/27/08</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Good morning - or good afternoon. I apologize
for such a tardy update. Unfortunately, the lack of sleep hit me a little
difficult this time, and I slept for 12 hours last night to try and knock a
sinus infection. Although I awoke rested, I had no luck. So...now I sit a few
feet away from mom's bed, with a mask on, and should only touch her with gloves
- so, that isn't as fun, but I'm just glad I can be with her.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I'm not exactly quite sure how to give the
update at this time. I know this much: there is some abnormalities in mom's
brain, heart, and lungs, but not much treatment that would serve to
"cure" these things. We are looking forward to getting her into a
regular room later this afternoon, and hopefully home before the weekend. At
home she will be more comfortable, and we'll have all the necessary equipment
to make that happen (hospital bed, oxygen, etc). <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">As I know, they haven't done any more tests
other than the EEG and MRI. That's probably not going to happen now.
Unfortunately, if they do find some irregularities and problems, they wouldn't
be able to really give her treatment, because it would only make her weaker and
her body less able to recover from these episodes.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Pray now for:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- mom to pass her "swallow test" so
that she can get her feeding tube taken out<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- comfort for mom<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- God's peace to rule in our hearts<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- health for me to get rid of the sinus
infection quickly<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- my sister and her husband as they travel
back to GA today and return at the weekend<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Praise the Lord, mom got into a normal room
tonight! There, hopefully, she'll be able to rest a little more calmly, with
little interruptions. She was "sleep talking" and acting out some
things which brought a bit of humor to our time tonight, but she was extremely
exhausted. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Praise God for:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- His traveling mercies upon Madeline and
Jeff, they made it back to GA safe and sound by <st1:time hour="21" minute="0" w:st="on">9 pm</st1:time> tonight<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- renewed energy for me from my sinus
infection - although I've had a lot of drainage, I can at least breathe!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- the many angels He has placed in our lives<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- YOU, our amazing prayer warriors!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Good night....<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/28/09</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Good morning.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I write to you from my office this morning, trying to tie up some ends and get
things scheduled for whatever is to come in the next few days. I spoke with Dad
this morning and he said she had a very restless night, with talking in her
sleep, twitching and moving...as well as heaving to cough. It is becoming
incredibly uncomfortable for her.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Dad didn't seem to be overjoyed this morning, as she had a difficult night, and
I'm sure he did as well. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Dad was able to see a doctor to get some news, but it wasn't necessarily too
positive. At this point, we're just taking one day at a time. I don't believe
she'll be taking the swallow test today, so we continue to pray for that to
happen.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-Pray for God's spirit to be upon us</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-pray that in our weakness and sadness, we'd see Jesus </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-pray for calmed hearts </span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Dad and I are waiting for dinner to arrive
(thanks to my amazing husband and in-laws). We've spoken with some docs,
nurses, and other folks today to get things started and rolling with arranging
mom's return home. We're hoping that happens tomorrow afternoon, but if not,
we'll shoot for Friday. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Once she is settled, we'll probably establish
some times for folks to come and visit. Please keep posted so you know when the
best time to visit will be. We appreciate your understanding.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Mom continues to do much rest, but seems to
be distracted by coughing and dreaming. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Continue to pray for:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- restful rest for her and for dad, as he is
unwilling to leave her side. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- travels to and from the hospital for our
family<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- to leave the hospital in God's timing,
whether that be tomorrow or Friday, and for the arrangements for equipment and
setting up the house would be smooth<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- specifically for my sister, who returned to
GA yesterday. She had to return to her school to teach, and is having a difficult
time being away, working, and not knowing what's always going on. Pray that her
heart would be calmed. Pray for her safety in traveling on Friday after school.
Pray for her health and the baby's health during this season of her pregnancy. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- Praise the Lord I'm feeling better,
although I still have a good bit of drainage and am sneezing like crazy. i have
to wear a mask in mom's room, and wear gloves if i sit with her and touch her. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Another day passes....but the Lord is our
provider - <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/29/09</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">This is the day the Lord has made, we will
rejoice and be glad in it....and it is surely a glorious day.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Mom grabbed hold to that scripture from the
beginning of this journey that began March 16....and we continue to hold tight
to it with her this day. The Lord granted rest, although little, it was rest,
and the awoke us with a beautiful sunrise. I was restlessly sleeping last night
and all I could do would pray scripture (thanks to the <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Wilsons</st1:place></st1:city> for such an amazing book borrow). <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I have failed, in my delivery of updates, to
share with you Scripture, and I apologize. For His Words have upheld us through
and through. While we're making arrangements for mom's return home this
afternoon, we continue to pray these words from the Lord and ask that you pray
them with us. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Lord, you have assigned me my portion and my
cup, you have made my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in
pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance. - Psalm 16:5-6<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">May the words of my mouth and the meditation
of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalm <st1:time hour="19" minute="14" w:st="on">19:14</st1:time><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">But I call to God, and the Lord saves me.
Evening, morning and <st1:time hour="12" minute="0" w:st="on">noon</st1:time> I
cry out in distress, and he hears my voice. Psalm 55:17<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Lord your God is with (me), he is might
to save. he will take great delight in (me), he will quiet (me) with his love,
he will rejoice over (me) with singing. - Zeph 3:17<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's
mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him
because he cares for you. - I Peter 5:6<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Be of great joy...for this is the day the
Lord has made!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/29/09</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Here's some exciting news....<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Madeline has a healthy baby GIRL growing with
her! Praise God for his protection over them both during this anxious season.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We're resting well at home now, quiet and
still. Dad and Jeremy are enjoying some college basketball and I am doing some
house things. We are all looking forward to a night of rest at home. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">If you would like, the best time to visit is
in the afternoon between <st1:time hour="13" minute="0" w:st="on">1-5p.m.</st1:time>
We simply ask that you call us first (home or Amanda's cell) so we can expect
your arrival. Please use the side entrance door. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We continue to covet your prayers...<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/30/09</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We've been hanging out around the house this
morning loving on mom. She was able to take some medicine last night and this
morning, and now is thirsty,so dad is fixing her up some thickened beverage of
sorts.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We had a quiet night, and it was so good to
rest at home and not in the hospital. Everybody seemed to have rested very
well. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Mom did open her eyes and has even spoken a
bit this morning, although still difficult to hear. She seems to still hear
everything we say. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Be encouraged this day...<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/01/09</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Good morning! We had a great day yesterday
and a beautiful morning so far. Mom was alert enough to know who and when folks
were visiting. She opened her eyes for most of the day, and even responded to
questions. She also has wanted some foods (some have been funny, but others
have been legit). The other day she wanted a Snickers bar (mom never liked
snickers before)!) and then my Aunt Phyl fixed chicken bog - the best meal
ever! - and mom was so excited to eat some. She even had a few bites of my
famous Oatmeal Chocolate Chip cookies. This morning she's had a few bites of a
biscuit and feeling well. Granted, she eats maybe 5 bites, but it's more than
she's had all week.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Her energy comes in spurts, and it's not a
lot...but when she's resting, she looks so peaceful. I think she's
understanding a bit of what is going on and is just enjoying her time she has
with everyone.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We have loved hearing from you, seeing you,
and knowing you're praying for everything. Continue praying for peace and
comfort for us all. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/03/09</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Good morning - </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom had a restful night, after a fairly restful day. She didn't have many
visitors, just the nurses and the pastors, and some of the 'big dogs' from her
old company. She was able to rest, although she gets interrupted by her
coughing. She's also been having some headaches, which makes her rest a little
less restful. She has been eating bites of things and is getting some liquids
into her, so she isn't dehydrating. She is off all of her medicine except for
the steroid. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Since she's got the large tumor on her right side, and more tumors in her brain
now, her thoughts and memory are suffering tremendously. She still knows who
everyone is, but she doesn't remember much and her desires are very impulsive. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We've had an abundance of love poured out on us, and we are so grateful for you
all. Continue to pray for:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-Comfort and painless rest for mom</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-safe travels for Jeff & Grace (my bro-in-law and niece) on Thursday
(Grace's bday) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-for us to enjoy every moment of time we have with mom </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">/04/09</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Today has not been the best of days. Mom woke
up this morning around 4 coughing and unable to sleep much after that. Later
on, she complained of a tight neck (has been a problem since we've been home)
and a #10 headache (now, there is a scale we all use, 1 being the slightest
pain, 10 being the worst pain....mom has NEVER had a #10, much less gone about
#5 or #6...so this was a big deal) <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">She wasn't very vocal yesterday, and it's
gotten even less today. Her appetite is no longer there, and she's been
sleeping a lot more. There has been noticeable change in her since yesterday
morning and it could be a number of things.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Right now, mom's best friend from college,
BT, is sitting by her side, talking with her, praying over her and loving on
her. Growing up, mom used to always tell us we needed a special friend like BT
- someone that's always there, no matter what, and makes BIG sacrifices to
serve and love on others...I know that I've got one of those (and I'm so
thankful - even though she lives in Mississippi!). Mom was so happy to see BT's
face today.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We are sure that the new tumors (and lack of
treatment to the old tumors) are beginning to make their presence known.
Memory, mobility, alertness, thought process, and senses are becoming weaker
and weaker. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Thank you for not giving up in your prayers,
we all are feeling surrounded by them, and continue to need them!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/06/09</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We're so glad it's Friday - but the week has
sped by. Jeff and Grace made it safely to <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Rock
Hill</st1:place></st1:city> yesterday around <st1:time hour="17" minute="0" w:st="on">5 p.m.</st1:time> and we were able to celebrate Grace's birthday. She
turned 6 years old yesterday and we loved showering her with love and gifts.
Even "Nana" was able to help sing Happy Birthday, and blew on a noise
maker! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">After a more difficult Tuesday and Wednesday,
mom was noticeably more alert yesterday, and able to hold more of a
conversation with a bit strong voice. As I sit here today, she is asleep again,
not having such a wonderful day. She hasn't spoken much, and hasn't been awake
a lot. She's also been complaining of more pain - which is something we didn't
have to deal a lot with in the beginning of all of this. You know we all hate
it when she's not comfortable and is hurting.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We don't know what's in store for the
weekend, but we pray for more rest and wonderful times with family. We'll have
a couple of opportunities for our ENTIRE family to be together tonight and
tomorrow to celebrate birthdays. We're looking forward to those times, for they
are always filled with joy.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/08/09</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Whew - it's been a weekend! With family
parties, visits from old friends, and an abundance of food, we've managed to
make it to Sunday afternoon - a true afternoon of rest. Mom has been asleep for
the past hour, dad is reading the paper and chatting with Jeremy while watching
basketball, and it's extremely quiet.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Mom enjoyed the day yesterday so much so that
she was awake for a large portion of it. When she's awake for a while, her
thoughts get really mixed up and her memory completely vanishes, so by last
night, she was saying some odd things, but she got an incredible amount of
sleep last night - everybody did.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">She was having some difficulties, and the
nurses thought she was suffering from some infections, so now she taking
medicine to help with the symptoms instead of taking an antibiotic right now.
We're praying that these will help her feel better and be more comfortable.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Madeline did end up returning to <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Georgia</st1:place></st1:country-region> today
and should be arriving there shortly. There were some things she needed to do
(along with get back to teaching), and doctors appointments for her pregnancy.
She will return to <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Rock Hill</st1:place></st1:city>
Friday evening and stay through the next week. Let's pray for her safety in
traveling, and her fears to be subsided while she's away.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We're looking ahead towards a new week, not
knowing what God has in store for each of us, but confident that he will continue
to uphold us in every way. Blessings to you all - <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/09/09</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">It has been a rather quiet day so far. Mom
slept from <st1:time hour="20" minute="30" w:st="on">8:30pm-9:45am</st1:time>
and woke up in quite a daze. She wasn't able to eat much for breakfast before
she realized she was tired again. She was alert for "bath time" but
quickly fell back asleep after the CNA left her. We've been trying to be quiet
to let her rest, but we've had "itches" to move about and get
outside.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Dad was able to enjoy the weather a bit, as
he got out to blow the leaves off the driveway. That was good for him to
breathe a different air. Jeremy plans to compound, wash and wax the cars in the
nice weather (I know I'm looking forward to that:)).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Pray for peace for Madeline while she's back
in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Georgia</st1:place></st1:country-region>.
Pray for health to be restored to dad as a small cold was coming on over the
weekend. Pray for comfort for mom as she rests.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Other than that...no new news...<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/11/09</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Tuesday was a "good" day, that
involved a lot of resting and a few nibbles of breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a
dessert (or two:)). Mom has been doing some serious sleeping, which makes the
day very quiet. She is always alert when the nurses come, but then back to
sleep she goes. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Yesterday, she had some fun visits from a
co-worker and his wife, the pastor and his wife, as well as mom's entire
ladies' circle group from the church. They came and brought her a Valentines
Day Card, and even sang "This Is The Day" to her - so much so that
she cried some big happy/sad tears. Everyone is pouring out their love to mom,
and to us, but it's good for her.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">At this point, mom has a lot of fears for
what will happen next. Pray for us as we offer words of comfort to her, and as
we continue to love on her. Pray for opportunities to talk with mom about
things that have happened that will make us laugh and cry - those are the best
times for us (mom just has to be awake for that to happen:)!). <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">One thing I've been harping on this week is
the last quarter of Genesis. At First ARP, we've begun a "read through the
Bible in less than a year" (Feb-Dec 31)...and last week was nothing but
Genesis. If you read from chapter 37 to the end, you'll become intrigued by the
unfolding life story of Joseph, a son born to Jacob/Israel. Joseph surely had
his moments of "ups and downs" (sold into slavery, temptation by
Potiphar's wife, thrown into prison, interpretation of dreams, rising to be
prince under Pharaoh....). But we notice in scripture that the Lord never
leaves Joseph's side - scripture continuously reminds us that "the Lord
was with Joseph" no matter where he was....<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Even in the <em>Jesus Storybook Bible</em> this story unfolds and in all of
Joseph's "bad" seasons, God uses whatever is going on for Joseph's
good. In the end, we see a great picture of forgiveness and even a sense of the
Gospel that is so beautiful....but in all of those 14 chapters, I'm reminded
that the Lord is with me always, just like he was with Joseph. I can never
claim anything other than that...if I did, I would be lying.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">From the moment of <st1:date day="18" month="3" w:st="on" year="2007">March 18, 2007</st1:date> I've seen the Lord in a
bright way - and he's never left our side...So I encourage you today, as I have
been encouraged - the Lord is with you, yesterday, today, and in the days to
come. I pray that we would all relish in His presence together - <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/14/09</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">ZZZZZzzzzzzzz.....that's the sound we've been
hearing all day! Mom has rested enough for all of us today! She was, however,
awake for a bit this morning, and dad was able to swap V-day cards with her. It
was a sweet and tender moment.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Dad and Jeremy went to the <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Winthrop</st1:place></st1:city> basketball game this afternoon -
dad's first trip out for more than 45 minutes since mom's been home!! And <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Winthrop</st1:place></st1:city> pulled through -
woohoo! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">My sister and I have had some great quality
time together - a late night trip to give some comfort and ease worries....and
then a grocery store trip and Dunkin Donuts run today (dad LOVES DD coffee, so
we always know that perks him up some). <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We've all been working on our taxes this
weekend - that can make for some quite depressing atmosphere, but we've had a
good time all together, nonetheless.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Let me take a minute to share with you about
the care mom has been receiving - she is under care with Interim Hospice
(different organization than Hospice and Community Care, but same idea). From
the moment we met the case worker, and a few of the nurses, our lives have been
touched. Mom has met 4 nurses so far that have been caring for her. At this
point, we see them twice a week to check vitals and address any
"medical" issues. They're always available if we need ANYTHING, and
they're always asking what they can do to help us. They've given us tons of
great information, advice, and love - not just to mom, but to us too!!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The first nurse we met was very special to
mom - she talked about her and was excited for when she was to come and visit.
However, she has had a family emergency and has had to cut back - no longer
able to care for mom. We were truly saddened, but I ask that you join with me
in praying for her and her family - her name is Stacy. She has a beautiful
heart and loved mom with all of it - even though she only knew her for about a
week. We will miss her!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">To our advantage, this brigade of ladies is
filled with many other wonderful nurses and caretakers!! Mom gets a visit from
the CNA each Mon-Fri...they have a great time bonding while she gives mom a
bath, and talks about love, life, and anything else! She's been key to all of
our sanity these past two weeks and everyday at <st1:time hour="12" minute="0" w:st="on">noon</st1:time> we look forward to her arrival.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The best thing about ALL of these ladies is
their faith, and their passion for the patients. Each one has not only cared
for us, but they've shared with us their passion for God, and even prayed with
us. We've all heard so many great things about Hospice, but we've all really
grown to understand how wonderful they really are - so if you're a part of the
group and reading this - know that we appreciate and love you all so much. You
have made the past 2 weeks more than we could ever imagine - THANK YOU!! (and
to Stacy - come see us ANYTIME, the Queen would always welcome your presence,
but we have no way to contact you...)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Be at peace this night, as you prepare for
the Lord's Day of worship tomorrow with these words from Psalm 121 - "He
will not let your foot slip he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed,
he who watches over <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Israel</st1:place></st1:country-region>
will neither slumber not sleep."<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/17/09</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wow - it's been a while since I last posted.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Currently, I'm at my office, getting a few things done (if you looked at my 'to-do'
list for the month, you'd be quite impressed with my productivity this week!). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Since Madeline is around this week, I'm able to be away a bit from the house
while mom is resting. She takes care of dad and helps him care for mom. I show
up in the late afternoon and enjoy spending all the time that I can. My church
folks are gracious people - understanding the situation that's in front of me
and my attitude to always go full-force. Many of them have stepped in to take
over and other have served as great encouragement and all have poured their
love over me, Jeremy, mom and the rest of the family. THANK YOU!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mom has been in a bit of discomfort since the weekend because of a few things.
She, however, has not had a ton of pain and needed to take any pain meds for
that. Yesterday, she was experiencing difficulties with coughing, and was
complaining that her chest was hurting. As for today, she continues to sleep
sleep sleep sleep. They say that it's normal...but I think mom's just making up
for all of us and our lack of sleep these days!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Many of you continue to ask if there is anything that we need...and I've found
that even the simplest of things have proven themselves to be of such needs.
And you find joy in getting them for us. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you feel led to help in providing such things, we always need things like:
plastic forks and spoons, plastic/paper plates, cups, juice, cards (not just to
mom, but to dad too), your thoughts and words on this guestbook, special
'treats' (many of you who know us well could name a treat that ALWAYS puts a
smile on our faces)....but most importantly, we rely on your continued prayers,
love, and encouragement.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've told many of you that mom, a while back, lost a lot of her capacity to be
emotional - sadness and laughter were rare occurrences for her. And that's
still the same today. Mom has cried a few times, when talking to dad, me and
Madeline, and her brothers about 'what was going on.' Although it's not 'happy'
I love to see those tears!! I must share a funny story that got her laughing
last night.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We were watching some of the Bachelor (it's a train wreck!!!). Jeremy
absolutely despises the show, so he began making fun of it. Then, he and I
re-enacted what was happening - he was the guy, and I was playing the role of
all 3 ladies at once. Mom was absolutely belly laughing - NO JOKE! Her smile
was the cutest thing to see (I've even taken a picture of it so I can remember
it later)...and she was just ashaking! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There is still joy! Thank you for reminding us to enjoy that!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Blessings this day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/18/09</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">In reading through some Psalms in the bitter
morning...I fully unwrapped myself in reading 119. Towards the end, in the 4th
section from the end these words seemed to ring truer than ever - "My eyes
stay open through the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your
promises" (vs 148).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I received a phone call at <st1:time hour="12" minute="30" w:st="on">12:30</st1:time> early this a.m. that mom
wasn't breathing well and was very nauseated and that I needed to come back to
the house. I arrived and she was super short of breath, clamy, and in terrible
pain. By <st1:time hour="13" minute="30" w:st="on">1:30</st1:time>, the nurse
arrived and did some evaluations and these are the possibilities and what we've
come to:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- a pulmonary embolism (remember, she had one
of these this time last year that got her down real hard). this would make
sense because of the blood thicking and not having any thinner agent (coumadin)
to help her out. She's also been stationary for 3.5 weeks<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">- the tumors and masses could possibly be
growing and encroaching on space where they shouldn't - causing lots of pain
and a smaller cavity to receive air<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">There are probably a hundred possibilities
but at this point it's difficult to know, and not so much the point in knowing.
For now, the best we can do is make her the most comfortable for her to rest
with pain medications. She is now unable to swallow well, so we're looking into
getting some type of "patch" that contains the meds to comfort her. I
was awake with her all night while dad and Madeline slept, and she seemed to be
comfortable. But low and behold, we reached <st1:time hour="6" minute="0" w:st="on">6 a.m.</st1:time> (the hour of her next dosage of meds) and she began
moaning in pain.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Please pray now, as we know this decline is
eminent, but that doesn't make it any easier. We find ourselves asking
"when" over and over, but it will all happen when it happens. We pray
for her comfort and peace, and ask that you pray specifically for dad this
morning who seems to struggle the most (for obvious reasons). Pray for rest, as
I have had none, and last night wasn't the most restful for anyone else.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">May you meditate on the promises of our God
this day, as I have so fervently prayed over through the morning hours....<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I write this from mom's bedside as we watch
her struggle with breathing so laboriously. We have had a chance to share with
her our love one more time and she has expressed her desire to be in heaven.
Please pray for mercy in these moments...<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/19/09 (a.m.)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We all seemed to sleep a bit better tonight
through our exhaustion. Somehow, I was comforted every time I awoke, to hear the
"moan/grunt" sound mom makes with her every breath. I was so selfish
last night, not wanting anything to happen until I woke up this morning....but
seeing her in the condition she's in (very much the same, laboring more to
breathe and a temp. of 103), I am so convicted of my selfishness. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Mom is just so unable to know what's going on
now, and we're having to watch her struggle. When I've thought about death,
I've heard that it's not easy to actually watch - and now I'm learning that
first hand. I think knowing the end result is what makes it so hard. It's such
a helpless state of being - her body is shutting down and there's nothing we
can do about it. But soon, and very soon, the Lord will bring her that relief,
He will take her pain all away, and He will wrap her up and soar her away. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We have been comforted by your prayers lifted
up, and know that you may be exhausted from those prayers - but I ask that you
continue to pray them even harder today, as we will be doing. A thought I want
to share with you - <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Be encouraged for our God is a merciful God.
I praise Him because He has never let my foot slip during all of this. He has
provided when in need, given grace at all times, and wrapped us in His care and
given His Word to comfort us - He did this, He is doing this today, and I am
confident that He will continue tomorrow - rest assured that our God loves us
and in our moments of "WHY", and know that God doesn't always desire
to give us the "why answers" but rather the "how" of His
promises. You read through Psalms yourself, and find that David may ask why a
good bit...but more often he rejoices in the promises of God - the fulfilled
ones and the not yet but soon to be fulfilled ones. That's what I filled called
to do in these days.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">May we be encouraged this day, through His
Word, and His Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2/19/09 (2:48 p.m.)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Our sweet Debi has made her trip home...<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Please refrain from calling at this time. We
thank you for all your thoughts and prayers.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Family<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Thank you all for your loving words of
comfort. Often times I have been filled with words to share with you about what
is happening, but only one word comes to mind - REJOICE. Mom always quoted from
Psalm 118:24 "This is the day the Lord has made, let us REJOICE and be
glad in it." <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">This truly was a new day from Him, and we
shall rejoice, just as we did yesterday, we have today, and will find the
strength to do so tomorrow. We, of course, are saddened, but we find peace,
knowing that mom is finally at rest and dancing with Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Thank you for being such a part in our lives
over these last 23 months. We can't find enough words to say "Thank
You" but want you to know that you have been such an encouragement and
inspiration to us - and your prayers, through the Spirit, have sustained us
more than we ever thought we needed. May the Lord grace continue to rest upon
you in the days to come.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHxwkE0NRexnY-5nFp89YILF7MRTiAf7iJIpJ2DVrekxBNycrg7KPVKF2Yr_qYohTh6J4IWeoky0mmcQDMwhheqbLnZ4VG7E5KhRakmS5G0PLe8rSMDHseJ4VDtmtd-nsW7_dLXOLBCGU/s1600/DSC02309.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHxwkE0NRexnY-5nFp89YILF7MRTiAf7iJIpJ2DVrekxBNycrg7KPVKF2Yr_qYohTh6J4IWeoky0mmcQDMwhheqbLnZ4VG7E5KhRakmS5G0PLe8rSMDHseJ4VDtmtd-nsW7_dLXOLBCGU/s320/DSC02309.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh snow just days after mom's service and beautiful yellow roses</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2P0lT5dXeN-tmvCqgIZ-tLvnRL-v5tiSWmblZGOFIxPPgnQhyyQBGJvL49cwkuTITpOF4tl_WuOB6xG706ed_AwOGdOsJ7nVJRWHmz0oL9COnFbBNVGID7tcvyaBJx-FhcOAxVbiPQGw/s1600/DSC02444.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2P0lT5dXeN-tmvCqgIZ-tLvnRL-v5tiSWmblZGOFIxPPgnQhyyQBGJvL49cwkuTITpOF4tl_WuOB6xG706ed_AwOGdOsJ7nVJRWHmz0oL9COnFbBNVGID7tcvyaBJx-FhcOAxVbiPQGw/s320/DSC02444.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Releasing butterflies at Mom's gravestone, Easter 2009</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3/19/09</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It was this time, just a month
ago - only 4 weeks - that our lives began to mold to a new season. I remember
the morning so vividly - we all had slept at the house together, rose rather
early, and I began playing my violin for mom as she seemed to rest rather
restlessly. I played through what seemed the entire hymnbook while sis, Jeff,
and Jeremy sang and hummed along. Dad was cleaning bathrooms (I promise we
tried to stop him and take over)! We 'kids' had a chance to just sit with mom
and sing words that we had grown up singing and loving so much. At this point,
mom wasn't really responsive and was there in the bed, but now her eyes were
somewhat opened. When I played she began to calm her breathing somewhat, and
she didn't make the grunting noise she had made all night before. That was such
a serene moment for me. Just as mom had calmed us by singing lullabies when we
were so young, now I was playing them for her. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I stopped playing after about more than an hour, and a good friend showed up to
bring Chic-fil-a for breakfast. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I remember going home to shower and wash a load of laundry before heading back
to the house for what seemed to be 'just in time'</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I found myself beside mom's left side, holding her hand and rubbing her head -
she always loved that, especially the way I did it. It was about 2:24 and I had
just called Jeremy to let him know that mom had started aspirating, and that if
I didn't call him before 3, then he just needed to come on over from work. Those
next 24 minutes seemed like only seconds. I would count her respiration's, they
would slow, become more deep, and fewer as the minutes when by. Then, I
remember, becoming quite concern, sent for dad, and then I was the one checking
her pulse when her body shut down. I remember looking at the clock, then back
at her to watch her take one final breath.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Those memories for me are sweet. The devil has tried in recent days to overrun
the sweetness and bring fear to mind. But the reality is that there is no fear.
I remember feeling so empty, yet filled with such spirit for my mommy was no
longer suffering. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I read a sermon by John Piper this morning, as I was just searching and
searching for something that would bring encouragement upon this day for me.
(www.desiringgod.org) I was reminded that in my praying over the last 2 years,
I would fervently ask the Lord to grant healing over mom. In the last months,
though, I found myself asking the Lord to grant his peace, and sustaining
grace, for mom's suffering was extending to ends unnecessary. I thought for a
while that I was being so selfish, no longer praying for that miraculous
healing - was I giving up on the miracles and possibilities of God?? That was
such an inner battle for me, because the rest of the family continued to pray
for healing, even after mom came home and was being cared for by Hospice. The
end was inevitable by that point and I just need grace to endure it - we all
did!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Praise the Lord for His power and goodness to us all, in our living and in our
dying. God has been ever present in my day to day living this month, always
wrapping me up in the moments that I'm fallen. God was present on the day He
wrapped mom up and took her into such <st1:place w:st="on">Paradise</st1:place>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've been dreaming a lot lately about mom. I dream that I'm always talking to
her - and oddly enough, she responds. She is 100% living and knows exactly what
is going on - (knows that she has been sick, knows what's happening in our
lives, etc). But she's alive. She's told me repeatedly 'I'm alive, I'm alive'
with such excitement in her voice. I wake up spooked just a little, but the
more I dwell on these dreams, the more joy I find. MOM IS ALIVE. Geez, how I
long for the day that I'm alive too!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For
those that have the burning question 'How are you doing?' Well, I wish the
answer was a simple - 'I'm good, and you?' and some days it actually might be. I
won't lie and tell you it's been fine. Each day comes with its share of
memories, lost moments, what-if moments, and sadness. But what we tend to
overlook is the all-surrounding peace that we have, and the knowledge of God's
provisions. I assume memories will continue to flood our minds and hearts, and
there will be harder days than today. But if we've learned anything, it's that
God doesn't give us too much to handle - he wants us to depend on him, trusting
in him, and knowing that he does everything for our good - always.</span></span></div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-50038913032444485542016-01-25T16:01:00.001-05:002016-01-27T19:13:55.123-05:00More verses for Using God's word to correct and train<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
What a weekend! We got snowed in, so that means we've been house bound since LAST MONDAY! We LOVE staying at home (because it sometimes it seems we aren't ever at home long enough to really relish our time with one another)....dance parties, walks to the creek, baking goody after goody, and staying up late. I LOVE doing life with my littles and my best friend!<br>
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Now, on to finish this series that's been so helpful for me (to work through, and to continue to practice even as I write!)...you can catch the first three parts <a href="http://www.heymomitsmeagain.blogspot.com/2016/01/using-gods-word-to-correct-and.html">here</a>, <a href="http://www.heymomitsmeagain.blogspot.com/2016/01/using-gods-word-to-correct-and_22.html">here</a>, and <a href="http://www.heymomitsmeagain.blogspot.com/2016/01/using-gods-word-to-correct-and_23.html">here</a>.<br>
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While we took the time to post and memorize scripture in our house, they are the promises of God that remind us of His goodness, faithfulness, and love for us and others. <i>God wants us to treasure what is revealed in the Bible and share it to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of his Law. As we regularly take God's Word into our own lives, we can speak even hard words of truth (discipline and correcting) in love</i> (BSF). Sometimes, those aren't the verses that we use in correcting behavior, so there are a few others that have been helpful for us. </div>
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So what verses do we use? Here are just a few verses that are commonly
used around my house for negative behaviors.
I am sure that as my girls get older we will begin to use more and more
scripture for other behaviors and encouragement and I pray that God will guide
me to use those appropriately. The
references are listed, but with the longer verses/passages, the words that are
bolded are typically the words that are spoken in the moment. We typically say "God's Word tells us that....." and " we disappoint and make God sad when we ......" This helps bring in the big picture - it isn't just an infraction against the sibling, friend, or parent, but direct disobedience to God and his Word, our ultimate guide for instruction.</div>
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Abusing other’s property:</div>
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<b><i>So whatever you wish that others
would do to you, do also to them</i></b><i>,
for this is the Law and the Prophets. </i> Matthew 7:12</div>
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Church/worship behavior:</div>
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<i>You shall keep my Sabbaths and reverence my sanctuary; I am the Lord.</i>
Leviticus 19:30</div>
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Complaining/arguing:</div>
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<b><i>Do all things without grumbling
or disputing</i></b><i>, that you may be
blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a
crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world…</i>
Philippians 2:14-15</div>
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Disobedience</div>
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<i>Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.</i>
Colossians 3:20</div>
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Lying</div>
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<i>The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are
trustworthy.</i> Proverbs 12:22</div>
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Retaliation</div>
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<b><i>Do not repay evil with evil or
insult with insult</i></b><i>. On the contrary, <b>repay evil with blessing</b>, because to this you were called so that
you may inherit a blessing. </i>I Peter 3:9</div>
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Selfishness</div>
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<i>Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the
interests of others. </i>Philippians 2:4</div>
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Tattling</div>
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<b><i>If your brother or sins against
you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone</i></b><i>. If
he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two
others along with you, that every charge may be established by the evidence of
two or three witnesses. If he refuses to
listen to them, tell it to the church.
And if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a
Gentile and a tax collector. </i>Matthew
18:15-17</div>
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Use of words</div>
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<b><i>Let no corrupting talk come out
of your mouths, but only such as is good for building </i></b><i>up, as fits the occasion, that it may give
grace to those who hear.</i> Ephesians 4:29<br>
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What are other verses that encourage you to grow and mature, alongside of your children? Would you share? </div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-54766688770239663422016-01-22T18:38:00.000-05:002016-01-27T19:12:57.194-05:00Using God's Word to correct and train....part 2<div class="MsoNormal">
I started this series yesterday and will continue for a few more days. Read the <a href="http://heymomitsmeagain.blogspot.com/2016/01/using-gods-word-to-correct-and.html">introduction</a> for some background on why I felt called to share this.<br>
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<i>Hear, O Israel: The
LORD our God, the LORD is one. You shall
love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all
your might. And these words that I command
you today shall be on your heart. You
shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you
sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and
when you rise. You shall bind them as a
sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your
house and on your gates.</i></div>
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Deuteronomy 6:4-9</div>
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Face it: as mothers, and simply as parents, we are
exhausted. Beyond what we can sometimes
think we can handle. But it isn’t
necessarily because we haven’t gotten enough sleep over the years because we’ve
had several opportunities to catch up. But we are exhausted because we are adulting
and parenting. Every. Moment. Of. The.
Day. When we were expecting our
children, folks never hesitated to warn us that we would be tired because the infant
babe would keep us up at all hours of the night, but no one warned me of the
physical, emotional, spiritual, mental, and relational exhaustion I would face
head to head with that necessary responsibility of rearing the best capable
“next generation” that would come from my family once they became toddlers,
preschoolers and school-aged children.
Thanks for the heads up, friends.
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My “babies” were so sweet and innocent, and for some time
they were easy to instruct and reprimand with simple bad action/simple
consequence measures. But about the time
my oldest daughter turned 3.5 years and my youngest was on the verge of 2, the
world completely morphed. Attitudes were
raging and sin was coming to life in their little bodies more than I had ever
seen before. This, in turn, brought my
sin out more than I’d like to admit. I
tried to treat our days with popsicle, fun stickers, early bedtime, extra
coffee, more time on the “pink rug” (our special time out spot) but NOTHING,
and I mean NOTHING was working (and I just kept adding more coffee to the mix
anyway…). </div>
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I was now entering the trenches of motherhood, which I
quickly learned wasn’t a term I coined on my own. I had several companions in the same season,
and several who had gone before me (and made it out alive!), but folks no one
ever warned me of this!!!!! After I got over the anger and rage, and forgiving
their mistakes, I moved back to our own trench and sat. I sat helpless for some time. Some days we didn’t function. Some days we were a hot mess. And then, as the Lord always shows himself
through reading in Scripture, I was moving through and uncovering the life and
story of God’s people in the Old Testament, in the book of Deuteronomy. </div>
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By this point, the Israelites have seen their share of the
trenches. They have been held captive
by mean and demanding Egyptians, seen the power of God displayed through the
plagues over the land, and journeyed far without what they thought they needed
most. And they whined, oh how they
whined! For some reason they kept forgetting who was really in charge and all
of their provisions were being met. So
here they are, Moses, their leader, reminds them of the commandments that God
has given them as they continue to move forward into the promised land. And then, Moses, through the inspiration of
God, throws them the best instruction they could ever receive. It was like the closing statement to their
pep talk at the end of a huddle. Deuteronomy
6:4-9 as written above. LOVE God with
ALL YOUR MIGHT. But not only that, TEACH
these things to your children.<br>
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Perhaps that’s when the light bulb went off, the glass
shattered that the Holy Spirit began to really change my heart. In the trenches of motherhood, I was allowing
all of our sin to work against us each and every day to indirectly weaken my
might. I had become complacent in my
quiet times with the Lord because I was feeling so defeated, but friends –
that’s exactly when I needed to be strengthened the most! Since I was spending
less and less time reading His Word, I wasn’t bearing much fruit for my
children to see. So there, in reading
these verses, there was great encouragement to take on a whole new perspective
in parenting all together and start looking at those trenches in a completely
different way. Just as the Israelites
were to heed these instructions so long ago, they can be so important for us to
reap encouragement today.</div>
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Are you in the trench today? Maybe the stormy, snowy, cabin fever type of day got the best of you and your children?? Please don't be discouraged....there is great instruction found in God's word alone that helps guide all of us along the way!</div>
Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-28349322434940570252016-01-21T16:09:00.000-05:002016-01-21T16:09:03.973-05:00Using God's Word to Correct and Train....IntroductionBSF (Bible Study Fellowship) has been such a place of safety, growth, respite, healing, and love for me over the past 4 years. Through the reading, teaching, discussion, and encouragement, I've been impacted by so many things and by so many women. I treasure these things and never discount the many ways I've been challenged from week to week. This year, I've been a little more spotty in attendance due to a sundry list of responsibilities and illness on my part, but have managed to still connect with the women of my group in small ways. Over the last two weeks, I was approached by one of the ladies inquiring what it was that I "did" and how I "did it" in caring for my children and teaching them the scriptures. And so in a brief 5 minutes of time before we had to grab the littles from their classes, I attempted to explain how God has impressed on J and me to hide His word in our hearts and model that with our girls. What came from that was a lingering of "Man, I didn't tell them about this" or "gosh, I wish I would have expressed that a little more clearly..." and so I knew I would eventually sit down and write those thoughts down. Unfortunately, that "spare" time came this week since L forced us to stay home from school. 1,200 breathing treatments, too many puffs of the inhaler, and double doses of steroids later, we are finally on the mend!<br />
So I sat down this morning, and typed some 4 pages of thoughts of the whys, hows, and from where. But these are the thoughts I shared with these two sisters of mine.These are daily prayers and goals that we have. We certainly don't have it all together but we try to teach our children the most important things in life and about the big picture. And by teaching them, we are convicted ourselves of our own shortcomings. Praise the Lord for his DAILY SUFFICIENT GRACE. May you be encouraged by these things and know that the trenches are big enough for all of us to walk in together, and we carry the sword with us to guide us out. Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-71525798106184455062015-10-29T16:23:00.001-04:002015-11-04T13:32:22.426-05:00HumbleIn an interview in his mid-40s after one of the biggest, life altering careers, Mike Tyson once said "I just want to be humble at all times." I wonder if he really meant it-(or if he knew what it means)?!<div><br><div>I know I don't. I don't even really know what I'm asking for when I pray for humility, even though the desires of my heart should be as such. I'm the everydays life's busyness, of course that <i>is </i>or at least <i>should</i> be my prayer. But when I'm face to face with my humility, I realize that I've got a LONG way to go before I'm "humble at all times."</div><div><br></div><div>Just last week I was smacked in the face with humility. And thankful for the Christian mentor who brought along the smacking, but wowza!!! </div><div>M has been complaining for about a month now of nausea. Like all day, long lasting sickies. And since the big has been going around I've been on guard with my tea tree oil and Clorox wipes....but she isn't getting physically sick. She just complains. "But momma always said, throw up and go to school, or don't throw up and you go on your way!" :)</div><div><br></div><div>It finally came to a climax the other night last week when it all made sense and in the wee hours of the night, I ended up having to call our super awesome amazing fantastic Doctor (!!!!) and I freaked out a little. Like-"ahhhhhhhhhh!!! Let's rush to the ER MY DAUGHTER IS WEIRD AND SO SICK!!!!!" And before I could even express much more than her current condition, the doc simply said this:</div><div><br></div><div>"Now, you need to know that when you are in Honduras, this won't even be close to some of the things you'll see and experience. And you won't have me to call. And this is the norm for the folks who live there." SILENCE. Face palm. Humility in its most beautiful form.</div></div><div>(The oh so wonderful doc then led us to great instructions, saw us the next day, treated the whole family for an intestinal parasite (ewe gross!) and I proceeded to wash 12 loads of laundry in the next 36 hours with hot water and dry on high heat!) seriously.</div><div><br></div><div>So as we continue to pray for God's guidance and leading in our life and preparation in the years to come to serve perhaps somewhere in Honduras, I was so humbled by my sweet doctor's words, as he remembered our family's desires to serve in a third world country. He was very quick to put into PERSPECTIVE the small things that only seemed big at the time. And I was reminded that in our serving in another land with less development (medical, social, everything...) we WILL see much worse. No doubt. But even more than that, now, our friends are suffering with far greater ailments and have no medical wisdoms to turn to like I had so readily available. </div><div><br></div><div>I have to be honest with myself in saying that one experience and the following 36 hours I spent with my daughters (and no husband) were so, so, so (disgusting!) trying and exhausting in so many different ways. </div><div>But every time I thought about my </div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">tiredness my dr's words came to mind and I was driven to praise the God who calls us into ministry....because He is the same God who prepares us and equips us for the ministry. And for that, we must pray for humility at all times. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><div>“<i>Good and upright is the Lord; therefore he instructs sinners in the way. He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way.”</i></div><div>Psalm 25:8-9 ESV</div></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-12940872151856961052015-10-29T16:09:00.001-04:002015-10-29T16:09:35.222-04:00Two monthsTime flies. I knew it would once school started. It always does. I remember as a kid it didn't. As an adult, however, time is at warp speed. Kindergarten has absolutely ROCKED our world upside and down and no one ever told me it would be such a drastic change-for everyone! We eat dinner at 5, and the girls are in bed by 6 most nights sound asleep. Gone are the days of fabulous naps and we welcome day after day of packing lunches trying to keep them different everyday!<div>Since September the Ghent girls have had quite some fun though!!!</div><div>I celebrated my 33rd birthday by going to a Lady Antebellum concert with a great couple in Greenville and seeing a good college friend who plays with Hunter Hayes (only on stage this time). We enjoyed a fabulous pre show dinner at The Playwright, a newer restaurant on the up and coming side of Falls Park in downtown. Such a fun night feeling like an out of place country music fan!! </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiqGtnkdlsxwbU0K_ciVaood9mHzhq4SIfmfqFXyPfJ_R0A-ETzzhs3GqAvXsZiQJUYaZcEdwxm9kqKD7rbhp2bH8Oa_wNOwq7zYLfMYD53dJNwOVXTVuV95jEb0_7T_QCr8VYhSFcAmU/s640/blogger-image-590476023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiqGtnkdlsxwbU0K_ciVaood9mHzhq4SIfmfqFXyPfJ_R0A-ETzzhs3GqAvXsZiQJUYaZcEdwxm9kqKD7rbhp2bH8Oa_wNOwq7zYLfMYD53dJNwOVXTVuV95jEb0_7T_QCr8VYhSFcAmU/s640/blogger-image-590476023.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRvKQD3odrzWuvIE5yYoeKqanIMOogBbEuYjrzOH-4t8jaYc7ysRtnNse9r2vMEdi1RQ1jYcdsP8woFtNHvNquVr1YlxiMYzCuGwNB2gciQNeAWUYnBFSth1VwLL9bqIW51gUiWPQPYa0/s640/blogger-image--1063360242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRvKQD3odrzWuvIE5yYoeKqanIMOogBbEuYjrzOH-4t8jaYc7ysRtnNse9r2vMEdi1RQ1jYcdsP8woFtNHvNquVr1YlxiMYzCuGwNB2gciQNeAWUYnBFSth1VwLL9bqIW51gUiWPQPYa0/s640/blogger-image--1063360242.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY8CQ5diTEVgoWq003V0lBYdzOboT40XC0eZXlqUfmu6a0c3dRA8SVjNRSb-WhTmXRubP6DwvWx44GGRUBsAuWdb7QmmbiBAPdHk_bTKfX8rxCJ5p5Mtsw7gaufK3NvhFmUYYpTZoA4fU/s640/blogger-image--187394007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY8CQ5diTEVgoWq003V0lBYdzOboT40XC0eZXlqUfmu6a0c3dRA8SVjNRSb-WhTmXRubP6DwvWx44GGRUBsAuWdb7QmmbiBAPdHk_bTKfX8rxCJ5p5Mtsw7gaufK3NvhFmUYYpTZoA4fU/s640/blogger-image--187394007.jpg"></a></div>Also enjoyed a girls' night with some of my fave upstairs coworker gals. Great food, great fun and great friends for the start of a great year-and found a new draft beer to enjoy!!</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizINQ1s3_hwPQzBoGldEOnVdi9uL3XeREn9MQbEnfHtfptQ6CsliOQq7_Hx7jckXkSB8-UkxoaHE4b-TpCQq3lZ-lwCpCFxDJQaE-kKbhMM4oJP9zShVQ6ADv_Shr8tC3wHAnDNHSsQtk/s640/blogger-image-988103225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizINQ1s3_hwPQzBoGldEOnVdi9uL3XeREn9MQbEnfHtfptQ6CsliOQq7_Hx7jckXkSB8-UkxoaHE4b-TpCQq3lZ-lwCpCFxDJQaE-kKbhMM4oJP9zShVQ6ADv_Shr8tC3wHAnDNHSsQtk/s640/blogger-image-988103225.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>On the not-so-fun stage of things, we FINALLY got Lydia tested for allergies and visited with one of the best pediatric asthma Drs in the area. Fabulously, of course, the testing that wasn't covered by our insurance was outrageously expensive. And it came to prove that she just has "average" allergies. Great. That was a miserable, expensive trial. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-OFCU-yB1qBF98FzmiEuQAHU4B2rZEE3YsDxoK2LHgFT5_Zbtoe-M221Jac1cOYThY26pl1s3PvdZKuwBxCn_h3ELAOtjXCnMrIYOG3iD2X9FrpHZ1cK-uBgSO1DOdJMxJv5t9h0nMqw/s640/blogger-image--1901774685.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-OFCU-yB1qBF98FzmiEuQAHU4B2rZEE3YsDxoK2LHgFT5_Zbtoe-M221Jac1cOYThY26pl1s3PvdZKuwBxCn_h3ELAOtjXCnMrIYOG3iD2X9FrpHZ1cK-uBgSO1DOdJMxJv5t9h0nMqw/s640/blogger-image--1901774685.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>BUT, we finally got an official diagnosis of asthma (which we've desired for quite some time, oddly enough) and so now we've got a brand new protocol and regimine for meds for sweet L, especially during the colder months. Inhalers and puffers at all times every day and at high intensity activities. Poor preemie baby with bad lungs. Hopefully we avoid the ER and hospital admittance for the first time this year. </div><div><br></div><div>We've spent lots of time at the park on beautiful afternoons after school, we've stopped by the donut store on our day off and we've had a major project at the Ghent house:operation move the Ghent girls into one room to share with bunk beds!!!</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX2PeKMeAFVLk-MhlHrsTfZ9GeNrXlqkNteRaxgoTJeLjyulz6gyCndMJU1n6gInHcyU0r3IKGT2ZnuM3RWOf3PMkt6W7z11MgS0SzvwbYUcyBEH_oRrIQc6I6CsYLiYpjm4Otgoit9gQ/s640/blogger-image--737101484.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX2PeKMeAFVLk-MhlHrsTfZ9GeNrXlqkNteRaxgoTJeLjyulz6gyCndMJU1n6gInHcyU0r3IKGT2ZnuM3RWOf3PMkt6W7z11MgS0SzvwbYUcyBEH_oRrIQc6I6CsYLiYpjm4Otgoit9gQ/s640/blogger-image--737101484.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcCJ0gpKdftaRwww8E7kf6D1KJL3Q7RilmnrwmUWBmSzI6KGocNlIVG6Jfn58l-uaxBTCIHtsdPTAlVfztpWyjqk-lwjbyWrOh4Hs3WRZu9oaUENwOhRPlkokKL5bsgpXOp0P7s3bCTFc/s640/blogger-image--1845514723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcCJ0gpKdftaRwww8E7kf6D1KJL3Q7RilmnrwmUWBmSzI6KGocNlIVG6Jfn58l-uaxBTCIHtsdPTAlVfztpWyjqk-lwjbyWrOh4Hs3WRZu9oaUENwOhRPlkokKL5bsgpXOp0P7s3bCTFc/s640/blogger-image--1845514723.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCORL5bmzA81YGPW3mNnBdnbzY_qtTNrTeJT59AABeVqeb7TAsu81t-icrMhyphenhyphen-l014YrR-CdZ_MqHLtfeXsyPVoHsEGU48fOdc6efI6WdbvvVOe668J3IY8HUsnYMwxRFhBO50uJGbYvQ/s640/blogger-image--259239140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCORL5bmzA81YGPW3mNnBdnbzY_qtTNrTeJT59AABeVqeb7TAsu81t-icrMhyphenhyphen-l014YrR-CdZ_MqHLtfeXsyPVoHsEGU48fOdc6efI6WdbvvVOe668J3IY8HUsnYMwxRFhBO50uJGbYvQ/s640/blogger-image--259239140.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJhY8lhBs77dx0qeZZ0AF77B4B8IYlfJWJ2KXvRkQo8pPBr24KVqMiZIxj2uok3N9EKwDkVX9zueuhV09AR6xCJH9XWeaKWwcdzvXSYcwQ5SL3IvkYL5Q27y7Leppc4bUZCyejzHFiYhQ/s640/blogger-image-1637731436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJhY8lhBs77dx0qeZZ0AF77B4B8IYlfJWJ2KXvRkQo8pPBr24KVqMiZIxj2uok3N9EKwDkVX9zueuhV09AR6xCJH9XWeaKWwcdzvXSYcwQ5SL3IvkYL5Q27y7Leppc4bUZCyejzHFiYhQ/s640/blogger-image-1637731436.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The room before painting:<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzg0Q6Akkdt5tTakDoepXB3wVHX9LvuIytEQdUs9deWIAyL2vYu_eTm5hImzjidUB24zTyCk1xSedOxSaAAqjAMMmrAJfuyaaibNXVKRm6nlMJZ9gr1gcadqyVRMTxXR_o_3pOBqceGu8/s640/blogger-image--1251783575.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzg0Q6Akkdt5tTakDoepXB3wVHX9LvuIytEQdUs9deWIAyL2vYu_eTm5hImzjidUB24zTyCk1xSedOxSaAAqjAMMmrAJfuyaaibNXVKRm6nlMJZ9gr1gcadqyVRMTxXR_o_3pOBqceGu8/s640/blogger-image--1251783575.jpg"></a></div></div>No more a nursery with avocado green paint....</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwrTtAPv9SpeqjaZonvspqZn8xYONmZESr_lQd1n6zLahr4VGxkaN01GMT0qJegswQ0H8JJYGO2DdwbyFvNvs0nTRZ1wC8ZPPoeztHUVYtpQL25O338IyLqtNSUWO5_1Z0fefLn7XMoE/s640/blogger-image--1230740484.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwrTtAPv9SpeqjaZonvspqZn8xYONmZESr_lQd1n6zLahr4VGxkaN01GMT0qJegswQ0H8JJYGO2DdwbyFvNvs0nTRZ1wC8ZPPoeztHUVYtpQL25O338IyLqtNSUWO5_1Z0fefLn7XMoE/s640/blogger-image--1230740484.jpg"></a></div>Now jade frost (a greyish green color) which I LOVE!!!!! Furniture is all swapped around and the crib/toddler bed is getting the boot tonight. Custom made bunk beds are moving in tomorrow and the Ghent girls start sharing a room!!!</div><div><br></div><div>Meanwhile, we've been at birthday parties, picked pumpkins with grandparents, made breakfast for dinner and spent all the time outside we possibly can. J has taken the girls on daddy/daughter dates and their only request: cherry park. I LOVE their love of the simple things:)</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9BKtHizaQTgiBDTjiTqQx5STqAAXAXfUdZJLYoLtBnHjJE9TTjgy3uI-aV_zJA7H2SqlYfgzBWszfUKTOigH7TTnmaGIHMuM2WU-RQRag4UrmHYLj0-KNbQ6DQgdFAEIG6lws5zksPgQ/s640/blogger-image--1270231320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9BKtHizaQTgiBDTjiTqQx5STqAAXAXfUdZJLYoLtBnHjJE9TTjgy3uI-aV_zJA7H2SqlYfgzBWszfUKTOigH7TTnmaGIHMuM2WU-RQRag4UrmHYLj0-KNbQ6DQgdFAEIG6lws5zksPgQ/s640/blogger-image--1270231320.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhytXVer6haLnhwS1dj-rCIbyGuipC7lRpWjQI9AJHMd_txYhEj0BW5ErpGfOeF0KNUuW6qo9AWWHhpNxxndZmAMZCnw5yO9wuvcRkZCws2-aR8426HmFoIe7tAbr2RHPiSt97h4BXfPoc/s640/blogger-image-495568884.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhytXVer6haLnhwS1dj-rCIbyGuipC7lRpWjQI9AJHMd_txYhEj0BW5ErpGfOeF0KNUuW6qo9AWWHhpNxxndZmAMZCnw5yO9wuvcRkZCws2-aR8426HmFoIe7tAbr2RHPiSt97h4BXfPoc/s640/blogger-image-495568884.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifSWAfiLf5LUNoEKE3e3oYq9xzERzn86b9uN8WLi8FpdqwDdIwGmsPkil5LQ66qvv12ZTU17yOAriIAKb_hsYdToluu3AxY5SK-DiPz0Mqpz3_QiZqxvlXkCBCI6aEDo025kkN6KPAzzk/s640/blogger-image--569543456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifSWAfiLf5LUNoEKE3e3oYq9xzERzn86b9uN8WLi8FpdqwDdIwGmsPkil5LQ66qvv12ZTU17yOAriIAKb_hsYdToluu3AxY5SK-DiPz0Mqpz3_QiZqxvlXkCBCI6aEDo025kkN6KPAzzk/s640/blogger-image--569543456.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMf5SflyC2FvXJsILAS0BZ3RwOUVkpbHTrJioW0yYPHOVcmCOw_9ZBWs6or_6jylHpMlITFR1WLIKopVmC9rUc1Eu4rLViE77Mqjl0kkyFs0NZQW0JaMiQxPwcFihXVOAKsV0p1Gs91Z0/s640/blogger-image--904784357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMf5SflyC2FvXJsILAS0BZ3RwOUVkpbHTrJioW0yYPHOVcmCOw_9ZBWs6or_6jylHpMlITFR1WLIKopVmC9rUc1Eu4rLViE77Mqjl0kkyFs0NZQW0JaMiQxPwcFihXVOAKsV0p1Gs91Z0/s640/blogger-image--904784357.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-13686674555522465512015-09-05T08:21:00.001-04:002015-09-05T08:21:06.227-04:00Final piece of the puzzleThe first week of September always completes the schedule for us. And this year was no exception. With the preschool starting back, our family life was in absolute full motion. Before it even began, I was already grateful for the long weekend ahead and the holiday we had coming!<div><br></div><div>The start of school, well, was difficult for a few professional reasons for me, and before the week ended, we've already had a major change. </div><div>I absolutely LOVE what I do. Each year the Lord uncovers more and more the skills He has given me and how He has equipped me to teach young people and that desire continues to grow. To think that all started from the "maybe I'll just take this church job for a year?!" Idea 10 yes ago....</div><div><br></div><div>Katie and I have 13 sweet 4 yr olds in class who are adorable and eager to learn. I'm so excited to see where they will be in May! </div><div><br></div><div>With the start, Lydia also had her first day of her 4th year, now starting the 3s class with Mrs Kelly and Mrs Cindy. This will probably be her most loved year at EDS yet-she LOVES Mrs Cindy like her own!!! </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXSkeHYgAon-914UK-l88DaxdLfFjqoQS6MivaQMj1ikuJ7MRjAD2ptw5DYGEsSN-v_d1HU371KogQlne19Ft9TftzTDdjgdmbI-61j7hDBzDl2qP1TgCgHLjU-Yc2vDqGHPHzlYXXeHI/s640/blogger-image--1655101294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXSkeHYgAon-914UK-l88DaxdLfFjqoQS6MivaQMj1ikuJ7MRjAD2ptw5DYGEsSN-v_d1HU371KogQlne19Ft9TftzTDdjgdmbI-61j7hDBzDl2qP1TgCgHLjU-Yc2vDqGHPHzlYXXeHI/s640/blogger-image--1655101294.jpg"></a></div>It's so different to just have one child at the school with me now and so easy!!!:)</div><div><br></div><div>This busy week also brought the start of church on Wednesday, and our circle study began on Thirsday. To add to the crazy, J was out of town (AGAIN!) and had a meeting from 7 am-6pm followed by a dinner and didn't get home til 10 that night so, we had sitters, late nights, early mornings, busy evenings. All of what will be our new normal. Whew. </div><div><br></div><div>Somehow, I managed to squeeze in some 545 am runs (oh my!!) and got in 3 this week. 15 weeks of consistent training. I'm more than ready to run the half LAST week and still have two months! It's SOOOO good to be back in the swing of things, physically, but even more so emotionally and mentally. </div><div><br></div><div>We have lots of projects, travel trips, friends in need in far away places, leadership trainings, Bible studies, and hopefully swim lessons/swim team for M to add in as the fall continues but are thankful for renewed energy EVERY SINGLE MORNING and that we never lack in what we need to keep us going. </div><div>Out with the "whoa is me" mentality and in with the "so excited, what's next, and how will God provide this time" expectation. There ARE great things in store, even amidst the busyness. And it's okay to be busy-it keeps us moving forward (I get soooooooo tired of Christian help books/people telling us to stop being busy-it's the way we are now!!!!!!!) God STILL works in the busy and we can still see Him in the busy. Face it, we live in the busy, we sin in the busy, and we continue to work out our salvation in the busy. What's even better, I can EXPECT God to BE in the busy all the more-how will I see Him today?</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-388628453136272459.post-13554160718414150572015-08-27T07:26:00.003-04:002015-08-27T07:26:47.168-04:00Off to Kindergarten we go!!! (M)Yay-it's time for Kindergarten!!!!!<div>M has been ready since the day she began 4k. She is so independent and a little too smart for me to handle. I've often wondered if there was something wrong with me because I didn't have all of the sappy emotional feelings to cry at her preschool graduation. I thought maybe I'd at least get a little out of breath dropping her off for the first day of school. Nope. My little girl was so stinkin' brave I didn't have a moment to be overwhelmed. She was made to shine. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4EJSl0t9e56IjYXA8CPsZ_YPqSxOPUmV_wqfES1lxpO8VtTWaXE9aZd7tzUKHZtw79V3-hRkiSqRp5Wk807TfvX1uBC0o9ZLLR7iL9jGKaECiJt4qHmB6SyTvecOM7l26aPbbjfa0Lb8/s640/blogger-image--1606721911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4EJSl0t9e56IjYXA8CPsZ_YPqSxOPUmV_wqfES1lxpO8VtTWaXE9aZd7tzUKHZtw79V3-hRkiSqRp5Wk807TfvX1uBC0o9ZLLR7iL9jGKaECiJt4qHmB6SyTvecOM7l26aPbbjfa0Lb8/s640/blogger-image--1606721911.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmaSyVbopbvyS1Mj8uz4XNPkgsUyn6CDYTG36CiUt9R05X_6FZ6zEQ-ji0rgDIVHxO1rRCewFCzKVY4I4BQN770-SWl-V68hRX_ww2fk2SPntnpoVuRWMGcIFhdrn-NgJlZYszkurEKOk/s640/blogger-image-1743372896.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmaSyVbopbvyS1Mj8uz4XNPkgsUyn6CDYTG36CiUt9R05X_6FZ6zEQ-ji0rgDIVHxO1rRCewFCzKVY4I4BQN770-SWl-V68hRX_ww2fk2SPntnpoVuRWMGcIFhdrn-NgJlZYszkurEKOk/s640/blogger-image-1743372896.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQVCyc3-VUkryjJYs25D7TLPJmUfflwEQbu0kpLRdwYyCchg46Wm0MGFFCTn6CbFU1QVIE-bzX8-pRj2FPE2wEcuASt60FM9Bc-L_RvV1Nz3kktxwABLAoupJS-nzIh4rMIqdvNuDExc/s640/blogger-image--470659018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQVCyc3-VUkryjJYs25D7TLPJmUfflwEQbu0kpLRdwYyCchg46Wm0MGFFCTn6CbFU1QVIE-bzX8-pRj2FPE2wEcuASt60FM9Bc-L_RvV1Nz3kktxwABLAoupJS-nzIh4rMIqdvNuDExc/s640/blogger-image--470659018.jpg"></a></div>She popped in that classroom like she owned it, face lit up with a smile, and went straight to meet a new friend. </div><div><br></div><div>I realized this gal has been my bosom buddy since birth. In my office for 4 months, nursed for a year, taught in class and nursery at church, then followed throughout preschool. She was in need of a break from her momma. And it's serving her well, at just a week in. </div><div><br></div><div>The second day she had already worked up the courage to let me drop her off in the car line and not be walked in. She's a rock star!!! </div><div>Hoping this Span/Engl class is a great experience for her, and not the follow through of horror stories I've heard. Really holding out for the benefit of the doubt and going for it...it will be so helpful for Honduras :)</div><div><br></div><div>Meanwhile, I had to take Little Sister out to lunch that day. She had it ROUGH. Her best friend went missing for a while 7 hours!!! This transition might be the hardest for L than it is for anyone else. </div><div>But I'll be grateful for this season with her, not knowing how long it will last. I'll take advantage of these small moments of just us while we have them. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE50rebG1uAxK8XRvGXjksj7nx-kVf4qa194hkEJ08_xdrwJfprog-kl83JDPwGgeLJbdxwjqwl7vt1bdXCRTNx5YbIsUyYaLYQP-50j_BbM0vQBa5_hhPbeT5IC_TqV7TXKaZ7_xNoOk/s640/blogger-image-82817651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE50rebG1uAxK8XRvGXjksj7nx-kVf4qa194hkEJ08_xdrwJfprog-kl83JDPwGgeLJbdxwjqwl7vt1bdXCRTNx5YbIsUyYaLYQP-50j_BbM0vQBa5_hhPbeT5IC_TqV7TXKaZ7_xNoOk/s640/blogger-image-82817651.jpg"></a></div>Both of these gals-my best friends-are such treasures to me. My life would be so quiet, and so boring and unentertaining without them!!</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13667390442702487565noreply@blogger.com0